by Natasha Lair
Last updated: 8:40 AM ET, Mon October 19, 2026
Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) hosted its fourth annual Ready, Set, Fly ... with YYZ event.
Held in partnership with Autism Ontario and Air Transat, the familiarization tour gave more than 200 participants hands-on experience with the various stages of air travel, including check-in, security screening, boarding and customs.
The initiative aims to reduce some of the uncertainty and anxiety that can accompany air travel, particularly for individuals who may find busy airport environments overwhelming.
"We recognize that travel can be overwhelming, and we are committed to making the journey more accessible and inclusive for everyone," said Hamilton Vincent de Paul, Director, Terminal Experience and Groundside Services, Airport Operations at Toronto Pearson.
"Through our partnership with Autism Ontario and Air Transat, Ready, Set Fly ... with YYZ helps participants become more comfortable with the airport experience, from check-in and security screening to boarding, customs and interacting with airport employees, making future travel more predictable and less stressful."
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For participants and their families, the opportunity to experience the airport without the pressure of catching a flight can make a significant difference.
"Opportunities like Ready, Set, Fly ... with YYZ provide autistic children, adults, and their families with a special opportunity to experience the airport process while relieving the stress and pressure from an actual travel day," says Marg Spoelstra, Chief Executive Officer of Autism Ontario.
"We are proud to continue our collaboration with Toronto Pearson and Air Transat, bridging the gap between our autistic community and community partners to meaningfully inform and demonstrate how to reduce barriers and make air travel more accessible."
Air Transat has participated in the program since its inception, providing access to an aircraft and airline employees to help participants better understand what to expect when flying.
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"At Air Transat, we want every family to feel welcome on board, including those for whom a first flight takes more preparation," said Andréan Gagné, Senior Director, Communications, Public Affairs and Corporate Responsibility, Transat.
"That is why we have been part of Ready, Set, Fly from the start. By opening our aircraft and sharing our team's expertise, we help travellers with autism and their families get ready for the trips they are planning."
Beyond the annual event, Pearson offers accessibility services and programs for passengers with visible and non-visible disabilities, including a travel rehearsal program that allows travellers with disabilities to practise navigating the airport ahead of their scheduled departure.
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