Air Canada, the Air Canada Foundation, Edmonton International Airport (YEG), and Autism Edmonton are partnering to host Autism Aviation Day at YEG.
The event is designed to help children on the autism spectrum familiarize themselves with the airport and flight process, reducing anxiety and increasing confidence for future travel.
"Autism Aviation Days are more than just practice runs — they're a gateway to confidence," said Rebecca Smillie-Nedelec, Director of Community Engagement at Air Canada.
"For many families, the opportunity to practice the airport and flight process in a supportive and flexible environment can make their future air travel dreams a reality."
In 2024, the airline hosted four Autism Aviation Days.
According to Air Canada, the program will expand across Canada in 2025, with the next event scheduled for May 10 in Kamloops.
YEG recently unveiled a new sensory room for neurodivergent travellers, including those with autism, anxiety, and other sensory sensitivities.
The room in the domestic-international departures lounge includes interactive panels, a five-foot-wide sensory pad, calming video displays of the Northern Lights, and aircraft seats donated by Air Canada to help passengers acclimate to the in-flight experience.
"YEG is dedicated to being an airport for everyone," said Carmen Donnelly, Vice President, Passenger Experience and Terminal Operations at YEG.
"We believe that neurodiverse individuals and their families should have the opportunity to experience the airport and flight process with confidence and comfort."
"Travel is such an important part of life, but for many autistic people, it may be a sensory and/or transitional nightmare," said Morine Rossi, Programs Manager at Autism Edmonton.
"By giving families and individuals this opportunity to practice in a safe and planned way, we are opening doors to unlimited opportunities for travel and adventures."
The sensory room officially opened on April 2, aligning with World Autism Awareness Day.
More information on accessibility programs at YEG here.
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