Dubai's largest airline, Emirates, hopes to become the world's first Autism Certified Airline when it is officially recognized by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards in the coming months.
More than 30,000 cabin crew and ground staff will receive training to help people on the autistic spectrum travel more easily. Emirates employees will learn about autism myths, obstacles people experience, and different ways to assist clients with their particular requirements, as well as any potential stimuli and triggers for employees to be aware of.
New standard services will be implemented to improve the on-ground and in-flight travel experience for people with autism, as well as their family and companions. New sensory guides will be introduced as part of the plans, allowing travelers to make informed decisions about the settings they'll encounter while travelling and tailor their itinerary to their needs and tastes. These smart guides will measure sensory inputs in public locations such as noise levels, illumination, and prospective sights and odors.
Anyone on board Emirates flights will have access to a variety of neurodiverse sensory items, such as sensory fidget toys or tools that allow people to focus, reduce self-stimulatory behavior, and de-stress.
Emirates got certification in April 2024 for its efforts to make check-in easier for people with autism. Every Dubai check-in facility, including Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport (DXB) and the inner-city locations, has been certified.
