Flying Tips

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Planning is key . When planning a flight for someone on the autism spectrum  or other special needs, there are a few factors to consider. Travel advisors should be asking you a lot of questions to get a good understanding of what your wants and needs are for your trip. If you are trying to plan a trip yourself I highly recommend finding a travel advisor that specializes in accessibility. Most agents do not charge extra fees and the commission they make are included in the price. This price is usually the same if not better then you would find online.  When searching for flights some factors you should consider are:

• How long is the flight?
•  Is there a direct flight option?
• Does the flight have any connections/layovers? How long?
• What is my back up plan if the flight gets delayed or canceled?
• Do I have lounge access in the airport or can I purchase it?
• What is the seat layout of the plane?
• Where will we sit?
• How much is the fare?
• Do I need flight cancelation/interruption insurance? How much is it?
• What is the distance between your house and the airport?
• What is the distance between the airport and the destination?
• What airline will you book with?
• What accessible accommodations does the airline offer?
• What are the options and costs for parking in or around the airport?
• Do I need a hotel the night before the flight? What is the cost?
• If I do need a hotel before the flight, does the hotel have a shuttle to take to the airport? Can I leave my vehicle parked at the hotel? costs?
• What is the size of the airport?
• Does the airport/airline offer and recognize the Sunflower Hidden Disability program?
• Where do I get the Sunflower lanyard?
• Do I need carry on or checked luggage? Costs?
• Does the airport have sensory rooms or quiet locations?
• What time of year will you fly at? peak or off peak times?
• How busy does the airport get? What are the busy times of the day?

Each airline offer special requests for passengers who need assistance, which are often called Special Service Requests (SSR). These requests cover a wide range of needs and each airline has different policies and procedures. Contact the airline early to submit your requests and complete the medical documents if required. Some common requests for individuals with autism are:

• Meet and assist (a personal greeter escorts passengers through airport procedures)
• Pre boarding or board last
• Seat requests
•  Free support person fare (taxes and fees apply) 
• Dietary restrictions or food allergies
• Wheelchair assistance
• Service animals 
• Visuals or hearing impairments 

One Person, One Fare policy states that Canada-based airlines must be able to offer travellers with disabilities accompanied by an attendant the ability to fly using one ticket (meaning the attendant may fly without additional cost). Used when travelling domestically.

You will need to travel with a support person if you are not self-reliant and require assistance with:

• Eating meals, taking medications or using the washroom
• Transferring to and from your seat1
• Orientation, communication, understanding and acting upon emergency instructions
• Evacuating in the event of an emergency

Each airline has specific requirements and procedures to follow. 

Click here for Air Canada's accessibility information and medical forms for a support worker. 

Click here for West Jet accessible information and medical forms .

Click here for Porter's accessible information and medical forms for a support worker.

Click here for Air Transat's accessible information and medical forms.

 Some airports offer an opportunity to "rehearse"  their upcoming journey through the airport. Contact the airport to arrange a visit to rehearse the entire airport experience, from parking to boarding the plane. You must have a confirmed travel document. This program varies from airport to airport. Your travel professional will know what airports offer this service and will arrange your visit.

Have your sunflower lanyard mailed a minimum of 2 weeks before you travel.  You may also be able to pick one up at the airport or airline check in counters where available.  The lanyard is a visible tool that identifies you as having a invisible disability. This allows employees to recognize that you need additional support. As a autism travel professional who is partnered with sunflower hidden disabilities I will mail these out  a few weeks before your travel. 

To "map your route" for an autism-friendly airport experience, use pre-travel resources like sensory maps, apps and visual guides. Use the airports website to plan your path, avoid busy lines, identify quiet spaces and understand each step of the journey. Make sure to pre schedule sensory breaks. And have a plan in place for meltdowns. If applicable, complete the Mobile Passport Control and entry requirements before arriving at the airport if traveling to or through USA. You can make your customs and immigration declaration using Advance Declaration in the ArriveCAN app before you fly into one of Canada’s participating airports. You can also apply for a NEXUS card.  As your Autism Travel Professional you can rest assure knowing that I will have planned your route and include all resources in your customized itinerary.  

Planning is often key to having a successful travel experience. People with autism feel more comfortable when they know what to expect. There are things you can do at home with your loved one to help prepare for your upcoming flight. Some helpful materials that we provide are:

• Social stories and visuals: simple social stories, key rings, choice boards and more. Click here for a free airplane social story.
• MagnusCards is a free mobile app presenting digital step-by-step guides (in the form of Card Decks) to support autistic and neurodiverse people to navigate home and community living.  Click here to download the free app.
• Role play: Practice activities like putting bags on a conveyor belt, walking through security, sitting in a seat with seatbelt on.
•  Visual countdown calendar: Put the calendar in a area they can see often. Have the departure date clearly marked (use a plane visual). Have them check off each day leading up to departure. 
• Involve them in the packing process: Each person gets 1 free personal item. Have them put a few items in their backpack that they want to bring.  
• Videos- include autism friendly video of the air travel process and destination. Click here for a helpful video that goes through the boarding process at the Ottawa airport. Video done by Cheo.

To further ensure your their safety, it is helpful to carry relevant medical documents, such as their diagnosis report, medical history, and a list of any medications they may be taking. This documentation can be shared with airline staff, hotel personnel, and other travel authorities if necessary. By having these documents readily available, you can communicate your child's needs effectively and ensure that everyone involved is aware of their unique requirements.

• Use ID Bracelets or Cards – Autism ID cards can help staff understand your child’s needs quickly.
• Bring a stroller or harness to keep your love one safe while traveling through the airport or in destination. 
• Consider using a air tag if your love one elopes. 
• Consider Travel Insurance – Extra peace of mind if plans need to change unexpectedly.
• Practice Flexibility – Delays happen, so having backup snacks, games, and calming strategies can save the day.

Packing can be stressful for anyone but packing for someone with autism is a whole new level. Some essentials to keep in your carry on are:

• Visuals: Create and pack visual schedules or checklists that outline the steps involved in the travel process. Include visuals for packing, first/then, going to the airport, security procedures, boarding, and disembarking. MAGNUS CARDS is a great resource.
• Organizer for passports/documents/diagnosis/alert cards
• Communication device/boards 
• Small Blanket
• Noise cancelling headphones
• Electronics: Ipad, switch, headphones (download movies, music/ games or shows before arrival)
• Portable charger
• Ear plugs
• Sunglasses
• Chapstick
• Lotion
• Fidget toys
• Comfort items, such as blanket, stuffy
• Chewing gum
• Favorite snacks
• Refillable water bottle
• Coloring book, pen and paper
•  Activity or reading books
• Chewlery
• Extra outfit
• Medication
• New toys (Dollarama)