Fly With Confidence With Wings for All®

Traveling can be an overwhelming experience for individuals with autism or other intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families, filled with unfamiliar sights, sounds, and routines. The Arc’s Wings for Autism®/Wings for All® (Wings) program stands as a beacon of hope, offering a unique experience to make air travel more accessible and enjoyable.

What’s Included In The Program

Wings provides a comprehensive airport rehearsal experience. Participants engage in every step of the travel process.

Here is what is included:

Check-in and obtaining boarding passes
Passing through TSA security
Waiting in the boarding area
Boarding an actual aircraft
Introduction to the plane’s features and in-flight safety protocols

Alleviating Travel Anxiety

The program is meticulously designed to address the specific challenges faced by people with autism and other intellectual/developmental disabilities (IDD). The aim is to demystify the airport environment, which can be particularly daunting due to the bright lights, loud noises, and the hustle and bustle of crowds. By familiarizing participants with these processes in a controlled and supportive setting, Wings significantly reduces travel-related stress and anxiety.

Step-By-Step Rehearsals

Through step-by-step rehearsals, families gain invaluable insights into navigating air travel. These rehearsals are not just about going through the motions; they’re about building confidence, understanding what to expect, and learning how to manage reactions to the sensory stimuli of an airport and aircraft.

Lifting The Veil Of Fear

One of the most profound impacts of these rehearsals is the lifting of fear—both for people with disabilities and their families. The program provides a safe space to encounter and adapt to potential stressors, transforming the unknown into the familiar. This preparation is key to empowering families to consider travel as a realistic and enjoyable possibility.

Empowerment And Independence

Participants and their families leave the program not just with positive memories, but with a sense of empowerment. This newfound confidence can extend beyond air travel, inspiring people with autism and IDD to explore new experiences with less anxiety.

Community And Connection

Wings also fosters a sense of community among participants. Families often discover they are not alone in their challenges, leading to lasting connections and a shared sense of support and understanding.

Hearing From The Heart: Testimonials

The impact of The Arc’s Wings for Autism®/Wings for All® program is best expressed through the voices of those who’ve experienced it firsthand:

“Thanks to Wings for Autism, my son felt the thrill of boarding a plane without the pressure of an actual flight. It’s opened a world of possibilities for our family travels.”
– Emily R.