1. Wings for Autism™ Autism Awareness for Airport, Airline and TSA Personnel
enter name(s) of presenter(s), their organization(s) and the date of the orientation
Wings for Autism was created by Charles River Center, an affiliated chapter of The Arc, in collaboration with the Massachusetts Port Authority. For additional information about bringing Wings to an airport near you, please

2. Thank You for Joining the Wings Team
Families are so grateful for your interest and support in helping them have the same travel experience as everyone else
This Wings for Autism event was “sold out” in only 1 ½ weeks
The Arc is delighted to have formed such a important partnership with you

3. Customers at this Event
33 families are expected at this event including people with autism and other intellectual/developmental disabilities, their parents, siblings and other relatives
52% have flown in the past
38% have a future trip scheduled
6 people will be using some type of stroller, wheelchair or other medical equipment
6 people have allergies (nuts, dairy, eggs, blueberries and gluten)

4. Customers at this Event
Of families that have previously traveled by air:
18% had few problems
27% had some problems
45% had many problems
9% had no problems
Of families that have not traveled by air:
100% anticipated problems

5. Customers at this Event
Families that have traveled by air reported these challenges:
27% being in a confined space
27% noise and vibrations on the aircraft
18% other
9% waiting in line or at the terminal
9% participating in an unfamiliar experience
9% the security and screening process

6. Questions and Answers What questions do you have about the: Video
Upcoming Wings for Autism event
What experience or advice would you like to share with your colleagues?
from the Video

7. Take Away Messages Every person with a disability is different
Companions are the experts
Some people may need more time
Use a soothing voice and give simple one-step directions
Interact with individuals on the autism spectrum as you would with anyone else
exercises

8. Take Away Messages
Speak with the companions if the person does not respond
Don’t feel bad if things don’t go as planned
Families are so grateful for your interest and support in helping them have the same travel experience as everyone else
Thank you for your extraordinary partnership