Mock airport exercise eases travel fears for those with autism

The Charlottetown Airport and Autism Society of P.E.I. hosted a mock travel day designed to ease the travel processfor individuals on the autism spectrum.

The mock travel day wasinspired by theAutism Aviators eventhostedbytheHalifax International Airport Authority and Autism Nova Scotia.

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"This is about bringing the opportunity of travel as a reality to Island families," said Nathalie Walsh, Executive Director of the Autism Society of P.E.I.

"Making it a situation so that it's aplace that's comfortable, known, and where individuals on the spectrum are accepted for who they are."

As part of the exercise, more than a dozen families went throughsimulated check-ins, luggage drop-offs, security check points and boarding procedures. They also got a chance to sit in a real airplane, though it was a smaller private plane, not a commercial one.

Help with new experiences

Walsh says wait times and sensory triggerscan be challenges for passengers with autism, so getting familiar with airport processes can help with future travel.

"For the families, giving them the opportunity to travel with their child or individuals themselves on the spectrum to transition, to see what the new environment's like," said Walsh. "It gives them the opportunity to prepare."

Walsh saidthe mock travelday isalso an opportunity for airport staff to learn about how they can better assistpassengers on the autism spectrum.

"It's very common.It's a reality here on P.E.I.It's a reality across the world, and it's something with understanding and acceptance, we can move forward together," she said.

'I feel great!'

Coralee Simpson did the exercise with her seven-year-old son Dane, who is sensitive to sounds and new experiences.

She said she hopes to use the experience as practice for future holidays.

"We've never been on a plane before as a family," said Simpson."I think it would be good now that we've got that behind us."

"I was excited to do it," said Dane. "I feel great!"

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