Emirates will be the first airline in the world with staff specifically trained to serve people on the autism spectrum

Emirates Airlines has announced on its website that it will become the first airline in the world with the Autism Certified Airline™ certification. The certification is awarded by the International Board for Qualification and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) to airlines trained to serve customers on the autism spectrum and sensory hypersensitivity. Emirates' 30,000 cabin crew and ground staff are to receive training in the coming months to enable them to better serve and understand people on the autism spectrum.

Emirates friendly to people on the autism spectrum

Emirates reports on its website that more than 75 per cent of individuals or families with people on the autism spectrum are reluctant to travel or opt out of international travel altogether, according to research by AutismTravel. The Dubai-based airline wants to make travel easier for these individuals and spare them the stress and hardship of travel. To this end, the airline has sent 30,000 employees on training to understand autism spectrum and sensory sensitivity to equip them with the knowledge and skills to meet the needs of travellers with autism and sensory sensitivity and their families. In 2025 and beyond, Emirates will be introducing new standards and services for people with autism and sensory sensitivities that will provide them with a more enjoyable and accessible travel experience.

Source: Emirates