Wings For Autism Event At Logan Airport Allows Families To Practice Travel Routines
BOSTON (CBS) --Over 500 children on the autism spectrum and their families were given special treatment at Logan Airport Saturday. The goal of the Wings for Autism event is to help ease the stress of flying.
Families were able to practice checking-in, going through security, waiting at the gate, and boarding.
"It great!" said Kyle. "This is going to help us prepare for when we go to Disney World."
Kyle and his family were among those taking it all in. "It's a unique experience that we can't do otherwise," said Kyle's mom Shannon. "We can talk about planes and look at pictures and movies and books but it's nothing like being on the plane for children that have anxiety or learning disabilities. It's been a wonderful opportunity."
This was Logan's 17th event. Over 5,000 families have participated in total.
"Not only is this a benefit to the families who participate, but it also provides a valuable training opportunity for airport, airline and TSA personnel to learn how to accommodate children with special needs and to increase awareness within the airport community so that children with special needs and their families can have a positive travel experience," said a statement from the Massachusetts Port Authority.