Emirates hosted a “Travel Rehearsal” day at Glasgow Airport recently, the first of its kind in Scotland, helping individuals with accessibility requirements feel more confident ahead of their next flight.
The global “Travel Rehearsal” programme from Emirates, the
world’s first autism-certified airline, offers guided simulations of the full
air travel journey, familiarising participants with airport procedures and the
onboard experience before they travel.
In collaboration with local Additional Support Needs Group
Autastic Club, several children on the autism spectrum and their families
experienced the end-to-end journey at Glasgow Airport, from check-in to the
departure gate.
Supported by airport and airline staff, participants moved
through check-in, security and the departure lounge, before taking part in a
mock boarding experience with customer announcements.
They also simulated the arrivals process, including
immigration and passport control, baggage collection, and arrivals
meet-and-greet.
Jabr Al-Azeeby, Emirates’ divisional vice president, UK,
said: “Following our first travel rehearsal programme in London earlier this
year, we are proud to bring the initiative to Scotland with our first session
in Glasgow. As the world’s first autism-certified airline, we aim to break down
the invisible barriers faced for people with accessibility requirements - by
providing a safe and supportive simulation of the journey. This session would
not have been possible without the Emirates Airport Services team in Glasgow,
who helped organise and host the experience.”
Angela Armour, co-founder of Autastic Club, added: “We are
very grateful to Emirates and Glasgow Airport for delivering such a positive
and valuable experience. Opportunities like this play a vital role in
supporting those who may feel hesitant about travel – particularly individuals
with Additional Support Needs.” -TradeArabia News Service