Hundreds of travelers with disabilities had the opportunity to become more familiar with the air travel process this month, thanks to Hawaiian Airlines.
The Honolulu-based carrier hosted its largest-ever disability practice flight on Sunday, which gave 258 participants the chance to practice flying with their disabilities.
The flight was arranged with local nonprofit partners, including Never Quit Dreaming, Hawaiʻi Autism Foundation and Autism Society of Hawaii, and allowed the participants to practice every step of the journey, from check-in and security screening to boarding and taxiing.
The concept gives travelers and their families the opportunity to practice checking in, receiving a boarding pass, and moving through the terminal and gate in a low-stress environment.
This is especially important for passengers with autism, sensory sensitivities, or other disabilities that can make navigating a busy terminal extra overwhelming.
“Our younger one is scared of going into large buildings and can’t even stay in the cafeteria in school,” said Reid and Sandra Moriyama, who have two children who participated in the event. “So, the last thing we wanted to do was start on an expensive trip, get to the airport, and he refuses to walk in the door.”
The couple said their son embraced the experience and was one of the first passengers aboard the flight. “He had the most fun on this flight,” they said.
Both Hawaiian Airlines and its partner carrier Alaska Airlines host practice flights for passengers with disabilities. This flight was particularly notable because it was the first time a widebody jet was used on a practice trip, allowing dozens more fliers to participate.
“We want every guest to feel welcome and confident when they travel with us,” said Shelly Parker, head of Hawaii guest operations for Hawaiian Airlines. “Hosting the largest-ever disability practice flight allows us to give more individuals and families the opportunity to experience air travel in a supportive environment.”
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