Autism and Air Travel

Credentials Display

Joceline Rodriguez, OTD; Riley Rynders, OTD; McKenzie Guth, OTD; Divya Sood, OTD, OTR/L

Abstract

Background: Autistic children frequently encounter several difficulties during travel, especially in airport environments. This research study aimed to investigate the perceptions of parents of autistic children, as well as airport and airline staff, regarding the support available and barriers these children encounter during air travel.

Method: A qualitative descriptive design was used, involving data collection through interviews with two distinct groups of participants: airport and airline staff (n = 4) and caregivers of autistic children (n = 5).

Results: Caregiver participants shared that having access to quiet spaces, sensory rooms, and more readily available information on accommodation would significantly enhance their travel experience. Airport and airline staff members highlighted that airlines and airports offer various resources to support families, however, the resources are not readily accessible to customers at many airports. Furthermore, there is a need for more comprehensive training and education for airport and airline staff to address the unique needs of autistic travelers effectively.

Conclusion: The findings highlight the necessity for airports and airlines to provide easily accessible information regarding available accommodation, support, and resources for families of autistic children. Furthermore, occupational therapists are well-equipped to deliver training to airport and airline staff on subjects related to autism and air travel.

Comments

The authors declare that they have no competing financial, professional, or personal interest that might have influenced the performance or presentation of the work described in this manuscript.

Recommended Citation

Rodriguez, J., Rynders, R., Guth, M., & Sood, D. (2026). Autism and Air Travel. The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy, 14(4), 1-13. https://doi.org/10.15453/2168-6408.2523