On the United Nations’ ‘Autism Awareness Day’ Japan Airlines Simulates Boarding a Plane for Children with Autism

By Barrier Free Japan

April 2 2024

JAPAN – Tuesday 2nd of April was the United Nation’s  ‘Autism Awareness Day’.

Japan Airlines or JAL, Japan’s national airline,  held a simulation boarding experience using an actual aircraft at Haneda Airport so that children with autism and other developmental disabilities can enjoy air travel with peace of mind.

Fifteen people, including students from special needs schools in Kanagawa Prefecture and their guardians, participated in the event. The students observed the airport facilities that block out light and sound to help them calm down in case of panic due to sensory sensitivity or other characteristics, or before boarding. They went through the security checkpoints and reviewed the procedures for getting on the bus to take their seats on the aircraft

After boarding, they reenacted the environmental changes on board, such as loud noises during takeoff and landing, announcements by flight attendants, and switching of lights. The crew members accompanied them and explained the in-flight facilities and how to spend their time.