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Emirates is on track to become the world’s first Autism Certified Airline, marking a significant step toward inclusive air travel. The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) will formally award this designation, which signifies progress for travelers with autism and sensory sensitivities. By early 2025, more than 30,000 Emirates cabin crew and ground staff are expected to complete specialized training, with further services and standards to be introduced throughout the year.
For individuals on the autism spectrum, air travel can present challenges due to sensory issues. A survey by AutismTravel.com revealed that 78% of families hesitate to travel, while 94% would consider more trips if staff were trained in autism awareness. Emirates’ initiative aims to support these families and aligns with Dubai’s goal of becoming the most accessible global destination.
The Autism Certified Airline designation is awarded to airlines that meet specific criteria for supporting passengers with autism and sensory sensitivities. Emirates collaborated with IBCCES on comprehensive research involving over 14,000 individuals with disabilities, feedback from 1,200 industry professionals, and audits of flights. This led to a data-driven approach in establishing new aviation standards covering all journey stages from check-in to in-flight services.
