Emirates, an Autism-Certified Airline, has launched its “Travel Rehearsal” programme in Madagascar, hosting its first session in the country’s Ivato International Airport (TNR).
The Travel Rehearsal programme allows people with accessible
travel requirements to experience a guided simulation of the complete air
travel journey, familiarising them with airport procedures and onboard
environments ahead of time – helping reduce anxiety and build confidence before
an actual flight.
This is the first-of-its-kind initiative conducted at
Antananarivo’s airport, organised by Emirates and supported by airport
stakeholders in addition to other partners.
Emirates partnered with Zaz Heureux School from where ten
children with autism and their families experienced the travel journey with
Emirates at the Ivato International Airport, 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 supported by pre‑arranged
officers who answered questions from families.
A highlight of the rehearsal was a guided tour of an
Emirates’ aircraft with many participants relaxed and fully engaged while
seated onboard.
As part of Emirates’ “Accessible Travel for All” approach,
the Travel Rehearsal programme aims to make air travel more predictable and
comfortable for individuals who are neurodivergent.
Oomar Ramtoola, Emirates’ Manager for the Indian Ocean Islands said: “We are proud to have completed our first travel rehearsal in Madagascar, aiming to reduce travel anxiety and create seamless journeys for people with neurodivergence. I would like to thank Emirates’ Airport Services Management and team at Ivato International Airport (TNR) and all our other partners for their ongoing support and guidance, which made this rehearsal possible. As the world’s first Autism-Certified Airline, we will continue to champion accessible travel in Madagascar and across our network, empowering more people to explore the world with ease and confidence.” -TradeArabia News Service