Emirates is expanding its innovative travel rehearsal program for children with autism to 17 cities worldwide. This initiative, launched last year, allows children to practice the journey through the airport, helping them prepare for real flights in a stress-free environment.
The program is now available in cities like Barcelona, Brisbane, Budapest, Cebu, Christchurch, Dubai, Durban, Luanda, Madrid, Manila, Mauritius, Manchester, Montreal, Nice, Oslo, Paris, and Toronto. More destinations are expected to join the list every month, making it easier for families around the globe to benefit from this initiative.
Supporting Autism-Friendly Travel
The travel rehearsals are conducted in collaboration with various airports, local authorities, and autism organizations. The program is not a bookable service but is offered on an invitation-only basis through accredited centers. It involves the participation of parents, therapists, and teachers, ensuring that children are well-prepared for the sensory challenges of air travel.
The concept of travel rehearsals began in 2023 as part of a community collaboration in Dubai. Emirates teamed up with Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism, Dubai Airports, Dubai Police, Dubai Customs, and several autism centers to develop the program. The input and feedback from these local schools and centers were crucial to shaping the program’s success.
The Importance of Travel Rehearsals for Autistic Children
For many children with autism, the sensory overload associated with air travel can be overwhelming. Loud noises, crowded spaces, and long waits can make airports and flights a stressful experience, often leading families to avoid travel altogether. According to a survey conducted by AutismTravel.com, 78% of families are hesitant to travel or visit new locations due to these challenges. Moreover, 94% of respondents said they would travel more frequently if they had access to autism-friendly services and trained staff.
Emirates’ travel rehearsal program provides children with the opportunity to experience the journey in a controlled environment, helping them adjust to the airport and flight processes. This practice reduces anxiety and builds confidence, making future air travel more manageable for children with autism and their families.
Emirates Leads the Way in Autism Support
In addition to the travel rehearsal program, Emirates has earned the distinction of being the world’s first Autism Certified Airline™. More than 30,000 Emirates cabin crew and ground staff have received specialized training to support passengers with autism. This training ensures that staff can assist families throughout their travel journey, offering a more comfortable and supportive experience for all passengers.
By providing autism-friendly services and continuing to expand its travel rehearsal program, Emirates is setting a new standard for accessibility in the aviation industry. The airline’s commitment to helping children with autism travel more easily is transforming the way families experience air travel.