Emirates to Become The World's First Autism-Certified Airline

Emirates is about to make history by becoming the world’s first autism-certified airline, setting a new benchmark for accessibility and inclusivity in the aviation industry. This groundbreaking initiative aims to create a more comfortable and supportive travel experience for individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities, making air travel more accessible than ever before.

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A step toward inclusive air travel

Image credit: Emirates | Official Website

For many neurodiverse travellers, flying can be an overwhelming experience. Bright lights, loud noises, unfamiliar environments, and sudden changes in routine can all contribute to heightened stress and anxiety. According to a recent survey by AutismTravel.com, a staggering 78% of families with autistic members feel hesitant to explore new destinations due to these challenges. However, the same study revealed that 94% of families would be more likely to travel if airline staff were trained to understand and accommodate their needs.

Emirates has taken these concerns to heart and partnered with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) to develop comprehensive training programs for their staff. As part of this initiative, more than 30,000 Emirates cabin crew and ground staff will undergo specialised autism awareness training to better support travellers on the spectrum.

What does the certification mean?

The official autism certification will be awarded to Emirates by IBCCES in the coming months, marking a major milestone in the airline's journey toward greater accessibility. In order to achieve this certification, at least 80% of customer-facing staff must complete extensive training that covers a wide range of topics, including:

• A deeper understanding of the autism spectrum.

• Common misconceptions about autism.

• Sensory triggers that might affect autistic passengers.

• Effective communication strategies to assist neurodiverse travellers.

This certification goes beyond just ticking boxes – it’s a commitment to providing a smoother and more comfortable experience for autistic passengers and their families.

Emirates' efforts so far

The airline has already made significant progress in enhancing its accessibility services. In Apr 2024, all four of Emirates' Dubai check-in facilities achieved Certified Autism Centre status, a testament to the airline’s dedication to improving customer experiences on the ground.

But Emirates isn’t stopping there. Looking ahead, the airline plans to roll out a series of new measures designed to enhance both on-ground and in-flight experiences for autistic passengers and their companions.

Future plans for an even smoother journey

Travelling with autism requires careful planning, and Emirates understands the importance of providing detailed information ahead of time. By 2025, the airline will introduce sensory guides that provide travellers with insights into what to expect during their journey – from sound levels and lighting conditions to potential sights and smells they might encounter at various points during their trip.

These sensory guides will empower families to better prepare for their flights and reduce the element of the unknown, making the entire experience much more predictable and manageable.

Setting a new industry standard

Image credit: @emirates | Instagram

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Emirates’ efforts are not just about making travel easier for a specific group of passengers – they are about setting a new industry standard for accessibility in aviation. By leading the way in neurodiverse-friendly air travel, Emirates hopes to inspire other airlines to follow suit and recognise the importance of inclusivity in their operations.

In the ever-evolving world of travel, accessibility should not be an afterthought – it should be a priority. Thanks to Emirates’ pioneering efforts, the skies are becoming friendlier for everyone, one flight at a time.

For families with autistic members who have long been hesitant to embark on new adventures, this initiative opens up a world of possibilities. Whether it’s a long-awaited holiday or a long-distance reunion with loved ones, Emirates is paving the way for stress-free, enjoyable journeys for all.