Emirates is elevating its commitment to accessible travel by integrating unique experiences for families with neurodiverse children. On April 24, 2024, at Dubai International Airport’s Terminal 3, 30 families participated in a special event designed to ease the travel anxieties of these children. This initiative, part of Dubai’s broader mission to enhance accessibility, included a simulated flight experience that allowed the children to familiarize themselves with the airport and flying procedures.
The initiative allowed participants to go through a complete check-in process and experience the environment of an actual flight without leaving the ground. The flight, EK2605, included typical inflight announcements and the experience of takeoff and landing, all within the safe confines of Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport. This simulation was designed to desensitize the sensory challenges that children with autism might face during real flights.
Among the attendees were children from the Dubai Autism Centre, Safe Centre for Autism, and other institutions, accompanied by their caregivers. They were joined by high-profile guests such as Her Excellency Hessa BuHumaid, Director General of the Community Development Authority of Dubai, and senior Emirates officials including Adil Al Ghaith and Mostafa Karam. This gathering was not just about practice and preparation; it also allowed Emirates to collaborate closely with organizations dedicated to the welfare of neurodiverse individuals, enriching the airline’s approach to accessible travel.
Enhancing the Airport Experience for Neurodiverse Travelers
This event was part of a larger initiative to make air travel more inclusive. Emirates has introduced the Autism Friendly Route at Dubai International Airport, which provides priority access throughout the airport journey— from check-in to boarding. The route is designed to offer a stress-free experience, supported by staff trained specifically to assist neurodiverse passengers.
In addition to practical experience, the initiative serves as a live study to gather insights on improving travel accessibility. The feedback collected will help in crafting procedures that cater more effectively to neurodiverse passengers. According to research by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards, a significant number of families avoid air travel due to the potential stress on their neurodiverse children. Emirates aims to change this narrative by increasing the number of autism-certified travel options.
Ongoing Commitment to Community Support
The initiative aligns with Dubai’s broader goals under its Social Agenda 33 and its commitment to becoming a leading destination for travelers with diverse needs. Emirates is actively working to extend these efforts beyond single events. For example, the airline has rolled out comprehensive training for over 29,000 of its staff worldwide, enhancing their ability to assist passengers with hidden disabilities effectively.
Furthermore, Emirates is developing an official Autism-friendly inflight certification in collaboration with IBCCES, aiming to set a standard that could be adopted industry-wide. This certification, along with the Certified Autism Center™ Designation recently awarded to various Emirates facilities, showcases the airline’s dedication to inclusivity in all aspects of its service.
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