Airport’s autism tour Nov. 18

Air travel can stress out almost anyone.

However, dealing with the airport, checking in, clearing security, waiting in the departure lounge, finding the gate and boarding the plane is especially troubling for those with autism.

Those who suffer with the mental condition tend to have increased anxiety and sensory sensitivities, which can be triggered by the crowds and cacophony of an airport.

To help families with a member who has autism, Kelowna International Airport is hosting its second annual YLW Accessibility Tour from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Nov. 18.

Families will go through the entire process of arriving at the airport, the pre-flight steps of checking in, going through security, finding the gate and boarding a plane.

The hope is that the practice round exposes those with autism, and their families, to what’s required and expected when flying. And then, when it comes time to fly for real, it should be less nerve-racking.

Families will also receive a resource kit designed to help those with autism, and their families, to prepare for flights. It includes an activity storybook, checklist, tips and airport map.

The kit is also available any time for people with autism, and their families, who are departing from Kelowna’s airport.

Besides preparing those with autism and their families, the accessibility tour is also used to educate airport employees and volunteers about how to help those with autism.

“We are thrilled to build off the success of last year’s inaugural YLW Accessibility Tour,” said Canucks Autism Network president Katy Harandi.

“By making air travel more accessible, individuals and families living with autism can experience a new world of possibilities.”

The tour was first developed by the Canucks Autism Network for Vancouver International Airport in 2014.

The network partners with Kelowna’s airport, the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority, WestJet and Autism Okanagan to put on the program locally.