Emirates said it has conducted more than 40 specialised “travel rehearsals” across its global network over the past year, helping more than 250 families with autistic children prepare for air travel and reduce anxiety associated with flying.

On Wednesday, Emirates hosted its “Travel Rehearsal” programme in the UK, holding its first session in the country at London Stansted Airport (STN).

In partnership with Hertfordshire-based special needs school, St Elizabeth’s Centre, several students on the autism spectrum and their families experienced the travel journey with Emirates at Stansted, from check-in to the departure gate. 

Supported by airport and airline staff, the students and their families walked through check-in, security, and the departure lounge. They also experienced immigration, luggage pick-up, and meet and greet.

The airline said the initiative, formalised as part of its accessibility and inclusion programme, allows children and young adults with autism to simulate the airport journey—from check-in to boarding—in a controlled and supportive environment.

The rehearsals, rolled out since April 2025, have been held in multiple cities spanning six continents, including Athens, Dubai, London, Paris, Sydney, and Toronto. Emirates said the programme was developed following positive feedback from earlier pilot sessions in Dubai, prompting its expansion into a structured global offering.

“The Emirates Travel Rehearsal programme has been a resounding success across six continents,” said Sami Aqil Abdullah, senior vice president of airport services outstation and business support. “We will continue to expand the initiative to reach more families and support confident travel experiences.”

According to the airline, more than 35,000 staff have received training to assist passengers with autism, including facilitating the rehearsals. The programme is conducted in coordination with airport authorities, security agencies and autism support organisations to ensure a realistic yet supportive experience.

Participants are guided through key airport processes such as baggage drop, immigration and security checks and are introduced to airport environments including retail and boarding areas. In some locations, they are also given access to aircraft and issued mock boarding passes to replicate actual travel conditions.

The initiative comes amid growing awareness of the challenges faced by neurodiverse passengers. Industry data cited by the airline suggests a significant proportion of families with autism are hesitant to travel due to sensory and procedural uncertainties associated with airports and flights.

Emirates, which describes itself as the world’s first autism-certified airline, said the programme is part of broader efforts to make air travel more accessible. In addition to rehearsals, the airline offers sensory support products onboard, including fidget tools, for passengers who may require additional assistance.

The airline said it plans to continue expanding the travel rehearsal programme throughout 2026, working with schools and support centres to increase participation. The initiative is expected to contribute to more inclusive travel experiences and may influence similar measures across the aviation industry.

Source: Emirates PR