Wings for Autism: Soaring Through Travel with Confidence at Worcester Airport

A Unique Experience for Families with Autism

At Worcester Regional Airport on Saturday, September 13, a passenger jet was not preparing for a flight but instead welcomed groups of curious participants in the Wings For Autism program. This event, held free of charge, allows individuals with autism to experience and practice airport travel without the stress of meeting a flight’s schedule.

Wings For Autism is a collaborative effort between Massport, the agency that manages the airport, and the Charles River Center, a nonprofit organization focused on developmental disabilities. The program takes place multiple times a year at Massachusetts’ regional and international airports, offering a safe space for families to become familiar with the airport environment.

Mia Healy-Waldron, Massport’s head of customer service, shared how meaningful these events are for participants. She often hears from families who describe the experience as life-changing. “This gives them a level of comfort that they wouldn’t have otherwise,” she said.

Accessibility Services for All Travelers

Worcester Regional Airport provides accessibility services for travelers with disabilities, as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act. These services include assistance for passengers who need extra time or support navigating through the airport and toward their flights.

The event primarily targets families with young autistic children, but it also welcomes a wide range of ages. Christine Puopolo, a mother of three sons with autism, attended the event with two of her adult sons. One of them remarked on how simple the process of going through the airport and boarding a plane seemed.

Puopolo lives in Dracut, but she and her family traveled to Worcester to help her sons prepare for an upcoming trip to Marco Island. “We were able to get our boarding passes, go through security, and even get on the plane before to see what to expect,” she said.

Overcoming Challenges in a Busy Airport

For people with autism, a busy airport can be overwhelming due to loud announcements, unexpected delays, and large crowds. Sensory processing and adapting to schedule changes can be particularly challenging.

Healy-Waldron explained that there are many triggers in an airport environment. From the bright lights and sounds at check-in to the confined space of the jet bridge, each step can be difficult for some individuals.

The Wings For Autism program began after one family reached out to the Charles River Center for help. Their autistic son had struggled with air travel due to these challenges. The result was a new initiative: an event where children with autism could experience the airport in a relaxed setting, without pressure.

A Growing Tradition

Boston Logan International Airport has hosted similar events for 14 years, and the Worcester event marked its third occurrence. Massport plans to make this an annual tradition.

During the program, volunteers from airlines serving Worcester Regional Airport guided participants through the check-in process, just as they would for a real flight. At the security checkpoint, Transportation Security Administration agents explained the screening process. On the jet parked at Gate 1, a pilot and crew led participants through flight announcements, buckling in, and handing out snacks.

Healy-Waldron noted that one boy, who couldn’t board a plane 15 years ago, is now an independent adult who regularly returns to the event. “It's great to see that he's grown up,” she said.

Personal Connection and Lasting Impact

The event was also personal for Healy-Waldron, as her 4-year-old nephew, recently diagnosed with autism, participated. “He met lots of kids today and they always have a ball together experiencing the airport,” she said. “One of the best parts is the kids get to go into the cockpit and see that travel is fun, that the airline attendants and the pilots are accessible.”

Through the Wings For Autism program, families gain confidence and familiarity with airport procedures, making future travels less stressful. It’s a valuable resource for those on the autism spectrum and their families, offering a supportive and understanding environment.