Emirates is set to become the world’s first airline to receive the certification as an “Autism Certified Airline” a milestone that promises to transform the travel experience for individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities. This certification will be awarded by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) in the coming months, once more than 30,000 Emirates employees complete the initial training.
Towards Accessible Travel for All
Emirates aims to make international travel more accessible for the global autism community, who often face significant challenges due to the high levels of sensory stimuli in airports and airplanes. A study by AutismTravel.com revealed that 78% of families with autistic members are hesitant to travel due to these difficulties, and 94% would be more willing to do so if the staff were trained and certified in autism. This initiative by Emirates also supports Dubai’s ambition to become the most accessible destination in the world.
The Autism Certified Airline (ACA) Designation
The ACA designation is the result of a collaboration between Emirates and IBCCES, where a thorough audit and onsite review were conducted. IBCCES surveyed more than 14,000 people with various disabilities, including those with autism and sensory sensitivities, to develop new standards that improve the experience for both passengers and airline staff. This data-driven approach allows Emirates to implement a comprehensive plan that covers services from ground to onboard.
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Staff Training and Awareness
More than 30,000 Emirates employees, including ground staff and cabin crew, will undergo focused training on autism and sensory awareness. This training, building on an introductory course completed by 23,000 employees in 2023, will equip Emirates teams with the necessary tools to meet the needs of travelers with autism, educating them about sensory triggers and best practices to provide appropriate support.
New Standards and Services for 2025
Starting in 2025, Emirates will implement new standards and services to enhance the experience for passengers with autism. Among these are “sensory guides,” digital tools that help travelers make informed decisions about the environments they will encounter during their journey. Additionally, sensory products such as stress-relief toys will be introduced onboard to promote focus and reduce self-stimulatory behavior.
Collaboration for Accessible Travel
Emirates has closely collaborated with Dubai Airports and Dubai Tourism to drive an accessible travel agenda. In April 2024, Emirates received the Certified Autism Center™ designation for its check-in facilities in Dubai, and Dubai International Airport was recognized as the first international airport with this certification in December 2023. These achievements support the vision of Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism to become the first Certified Autism Destination™ in the Eastern Hemisphere.
With these efforts, Emirates positions itself as a leader in creating an inclusive travel environment, ensuring that all passengers, regardless of their needs, can enjoy a comfortable and accessible flight experience.
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