Air travel can be a daunting experience for anyone, from the fear of heights to fearing the unknown.
Picture: Getaway gallery
Delta Air Lines have gone one up and made travel more welcoming for customers with aerophobia and disabilities such as autism and cognitive disabilities.
There are a number of resources made available which are a first of its kind for air travel or airlines in general. In addition to Delta-curated tools like multi-sensory rooms, the airlines employ Transport Security Administration that helps make the journey an accessible one by offering a helping hand when need be.
Eric and Christina Hanson travel frequently with their 10-year-old daughter Bella who suffers from autism, and they encourage other parents with children with disabilities to do the same. Christina noted that Bella has flown 40 000 miles over the last two years, and that experience was flawless due to Delta’s extreme efforts.
‘Every time we’ve flown, they’ve always made sure that we could board early with her and let her get situated. They come to check on her often to see if there’s anything she needs, and they bring extra snacks,’ Christina told Breaking travel news. ‘Delta people have made it easier and more relaxing and just embrace her, which was always amazing.’
To make travel easier for the clients the airlines offer familiarisation tours in two of their biggest hubs Atlanta and Minneapolis. This is done to give families the opportunity to practice in a hands-on environment. The tours allow families with disabilities the opportunity to practice the process of travelling through an airport before having to embark on the real journey.
Other programs such as Navigation MSP offers free practice runs through the airport and on the aircraft for children and adults who may experience discomfort when flying. Delta partnered with local authorities to create a mock cabin which can be used in place of an actual aircraft. The program volunteers are Delta employees with a family member who suffers from a disability.
The experience doesn’t end there as sensory rooms are also provided to make travel more enjoyable for individuals with sensory sensitivities. These rooms include calming colours, sounds and activities which put your mind at ease before taking flight.
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