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Emirates to become the world’s first autism certified airline
Emirates is set to become the world’s first Autism Certified Airline.
The inaugural designation is set to be formally awarded by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) in the coming months.
This is when more than 30,000 Emirates cabin crew and ground staff will have completed their initial training.
Emirates also plans to roll out new standards and services that will improve the on ground and inflight travel experience for customers on the autism spectrum and their families and companions.
Details of this will be announced later in the year.
Emirates has worked collaboratively with IBCCES to conduct an onsite review and comprehensive audit.
IBCCES surveyed more than 14,000 people with a variety of disabilities, including people with autism, those with sensory sensitivities and their families and caregivers.
The survey data was collated alongside numerous interviews, an International Air Transport Association (IATA) industry survey, and feedback from 1,200 industry professionals.
IBCCES also conducted several Emirates flight audits on both long and short haul routes.
The certification process includes ensuring at least 80% of customer-facing staff complete the dedicated training.
Emirates’ ground staff and cabin crew will undertake focused training on autism and sensory awareness to address needs of travellers.
It builds on the Emirates ‘Introduction to Autism and Hidden Disabilities’ training, which was completed by 23,000 staff in 2023.
Throughout 2025 and beyond, Emirates will be introducing new standards and services including the introduction of ‘sensory guides’ – digital aids developed as part of the audit conducted by.
It measures sensory inputs in public areas such as sound levels, lighting, and potential sights and smells.
Another development expected in 2025 will be the introduction of neurodiverse sensory products, like sensory fidget toys or aids that can encourage focus and de-stress.
In April 2024, Emirates achieved a Certified Autism Center Designation for all four of its Dubai Check In facilities including its dedicated hub in Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport
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TravelMole Editorial Team
Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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