Emirates is on track to become the world’s first Autism Certified Airline, a groundbreaking milestone aimed at making air travel more inclusive for individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities. The official certification, to be awarded by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), is expected in the coming months, with over 30,000 Emirates staff undergoing specialized training.
The airline is working closely with IBCCES to implement industry-first standards that will enhance the travel experience both on the ground and in-flight for passengers on the autism spectrum and their families. Emirates plans to introduce new services, including sensory guides and neurodiverse sensory products, to be rolled out in 2025.
Research highlights the importance of such initiatives. According to a survey by AutismTravel.com, 78% of families are hesitant to travel due to the challenges faced by individuals with autism, while 94% said they would travel more if staff were trained in autism awareness. By addressing these concerns, Emirates supports its mission to make travel accessible to all and aligns with Dubai’s goal of becoming the world’s most accessible destination.
This initiative builds on the airline’s 2023 training of 23,000 staff in autism awareness and represents a step forward in creating a seamless travel experience.
