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Alaska Airlines, in collaboration with the Autism Society and port authorities, recently organized a disability practice flight at Portland International Airport. This initiative aims to provide individuals with disabilities the opportunity to experience various aspects of air travel, from airport entry and security checks to taxiing on the tarmac. The goal is to reduce travel-related stress and improve inclusive customer service for travelers, especially those with cognitive and developmental disabilities.
The event aligns with Alaska Airlines' ongoing efforts to enhance accessibility. In December 2022, the airline established its Disability Office as a "center of excellence" for addressing disability matters within the company. Since its inception, the office has received over 150 inquiries and requests, conducted ten workshops on topics like neurodiversity and autism in the workplace, fulfilled more than 200 American Sign Language requests, supported accessibility needs for over 50 events, and presented at seven national conferences on accessibility and disability inclusion.
Guests who participated in the practice flight shared positive feedback about their experiences. Robert D., one participant, noted that it helped him prepare his five-year-old son for flying. Sheryl M., another guest, mentioned that her son now knows what to expect during a real flight after going through the process. Nate expressed that the opportunity allowed his daughter to become familiar with new sounds and sights associated with air travel.
