Emirates Set To Become The World's First Autism Certified Airlinetm

(MENAFN- EIN Presswire)

Emirates has launched an inspiring journey to officially become the world's first Autism Certified AirlineTM.

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES, January 8, 2025 /EINPresswire / -- Emirates has launched an inspiring journey to officially become the world's first Autism Certified AirlineTM , inviting autistic and sensory sensitive customers to experience Emirates' seamless services and personalised hospitality, making travel more accessible for all. The inaugural designation is set to be formally awarded by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES ) in the coming months, when more than 30,000 Emirates cabin crew and ground staff will have completed the initial training. Emirates also plans to roll out new standards and services that will improve the on ground and inflight travel experience for both customers on the autism spectrum and their families and companions, to be announced later in the year.

Accessible Travel for all

For many members of the global autism community, international air travel is a highly challenging experience, or something to be avoided completely, due to the high level of sensory stimuli that can be involved. A survey on AutismTravel revealed that 78% of families are hesitant to travel or visit new locations, and that 94% of respondents would take more vacations if they had access to places where staff are autism-trained and certified. As part of Emirates' mission to make travel more inclusive and accessible for all, this significant step also supports Dubai's ambition to become the most accessible destination in the world.

What is the Autism Certified AirlineTM designation (ACA)?

Driven by its commitment to creating a welcoming travel experience for all customers including autistic individuals and those with sensory sensitivities, Emirates worked collaboratively with IBCCES, a leading organization in autism and neurodiversity training and certification, to conduct an onsite review and comprehensive audit.

As part of a vast research endeavour, IBCCES surveyed more than 14,000 people with a variety of disabilities, including autistic individuals, those with sensory sensitivities and their families and caregivers. The survey data was collated alongside numerous interviews, an International Air Transport Association (IATA) industry survey, and feedback from 1,200 industry professionals – helping develop the most beneficial standards for both passengers and airline staff. In addition to the feedback collated, IBCCES experts also conducted several Emirates flight audits on both long and short haul routes.

Emirates' autism and sensory-awareness training for more than 30,000 staff

As part of the designation, Emirates' ground staff and cabin crew will undertake a new, focused training on autism and sensory awareness to equip them with the understanding and skills to address needs of autistic travellers and those with sensory sensitivities, along with their families. The training educates Emirates' teams on the spectrum of autism, misconceptions and challenges faced, the myriad ways to assist customers dependent on their individual needs, and potential stimulus and triggers that staff should be aware of. The new training builds on the foundations established by the Emirates 'Introduction to Autism and Hidden Disabilities' training, which was completed by 23,000 staff in 2023.

Emirates' new standards and services for autistic customers

Throughout 2025 and beyond, Emirates will be introducing new standards and services for autistic customers and sensory conditions that will ensure more enjoyable and accessible travel. One such service is the introduction of 'sensory guides' – digital aids developed as part of the audit conducted by IBCCES in collaboration with Emirates that empower travellers to make informed decisions about the various environments encountered, and plan what suits their needs and preferences. The guides were created by conducting comprehensive facilities audits across Dubai locations and the inflight experience, measuring sensory inputs in public areas such as sound levels, lighting, and potential sights and smells. Another development expected in 2025 will be the introduction of neurodiverse sensory products, for customers on Emirates flights – sensory fidget toys or aids that can encourage focus, help to reduce self stimulatory behaviour and de-stress.

Working together for Accessible Travel: Emirates, Dubai Airports and Dubai Tourism

In April 2024, Emirates achieved a Certified Autism CenterTM Designation for all four of its Dubai Check In facilities including its dedicated hub in Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport (DXB). In December 2023, Dubai Airport was celebrated as the first international airport to receive the Certified Autism CentreTM Designation. Continuing to drive the accessible travel agenda forward, Emirates' new training programme, as well as new standards and protocols to be implemented in stages in 2025 and beyond, will enable neurodiverse customers to fly more comfortably. These achievements align with the Department of Economy and Tourism's (DET) vision of Dubai becoming the first Certified Autism DestinationTM (CAD) in the Eastern Hemisphere. By working closely together – Emirates, the Department of Economy and Tourism, Dubai Airports, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs, Dubai Police and Dubai Customs, are making significant inroads in inclusive and accessible travel.

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ABOUT IBCCES

Delivering The Global Standard For Training and Certification in The Field of Cognitive Disorders – IBCCES provides a series of certifications that empower professionals to be leaders in their field and improve the outcomes for the individuals they serve. These programs are recognized around the world as the leading benchmark for training and certification in the areas of autism and other cognitive disorders. IBCCES partners with cities, destinations, and organizations on initiatives like the Certified Autism DestinationTM (CAD) program, ensuring autistic and sensory-sensitive visitors feel welcomed and safe. Becoming a CAD means tourism, hospitality, and entertainment organizations complete autism and sensory sensitivity training and certification developed and delivered by IBCCES. IBCCES also created AutismTravel, a free online resource for families that lists certified destinations and connects families to other resources and each other.

Myron Pincomb
IBCCES
+ 1 904 608 0493
email us here
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