Dubai-based airline Emirates is taking a significant step to make the travel experience more accessible for passengers with autism and their families. The company is training over 30,000 cabin crew and ground staff through a specialised programme to work with individuals with autism. Once the training is completed, Emirates will become the world’s first Autism Certified Airline.
Autism Training and Certification Process
The training programme is being developed by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), an organisation specialised in working with individuals with autism. The programme focuses on helping airline staff better understand autism and develop skills to provide enhanced support to these passengers during their travels.
Meredith Tekin, President of IBCCES, highlighted that the certification process requires a long-term commitment:
“Achieving certification demonstrates that an organisation is doing everything possible for its passengers with autism, offering sensory guides and advanced support. The periodic renewal of this certification proves that the commitment is sustainable.”
Autism-Friendly Services on the Horizon
Emirates’ autism-friendly services will be launched in the coming months. Among these innovations are:
In the air: Distribution of sensory products such as fidget toys to passengers. On the ground: Release of sensory guides to prepare passengers for environmental details they may encounter at airports, such as lights, sounds, and smells.
For passengers with autism, flying can often involve sensory overloads, such as crowds, bright lights, loud noises, and confined spaces. Emirates is adopting a comprehensive approach to address these challenges.
Global Efforts for Passengers with Autism
In recent years, many airlines and airports have made significant strides in inclusivity and accessibility. For example, airlines such as Turkish Airlines, British Airways, and Air New Zealand have partnered with the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower initiative, providing sunflower-patterned lanyards for passengers with invisible disabilities. These lanyards serve as a subtle alert to cabin crew that the passenger may need additional support.
Airports such as Pittsburgh International and Los Angeles International in the US also offer low-sensory areas. These spaces feature calming elements like soft furniture, dimmed lighting, and sensory games. Additionally, some airports have interactive areas where passengers can prepare for the actual flight experience.
Reactions from the Travel Community
Influencer Cynthia Andrew, who travels with her autistic twin sons, welcomed the move but expressed a desire to see how the certification will be applied in real-life situations:
“Such certifications raise awareness. Awareness often brings empathy, compassion, and understanding. However, it’s important to see if this will become a daily effort.”
Emirates’ initiative could make a significant difference in the industry, providing individuals with autism a more comfortable and secure travel experience.
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