PBI’s Great Airport Adventure with Avelo Airlines

About the Program

Category: Civic Education and Public Information (Best in Category)

Year: 2023

Air travel can be challenging for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The changes in routine, navigating unfamiliar environments, new noises and sights make the experience difficult for people with ASD. In 2022, the Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) Marketing Director hosted a class from the Palm Beach School for Autism’s adult transition program, Project Next, for an immersive mock travel experience as a part of their community-based instruction. The students began the tour at the ticket counter where they each received a boarding pass. They went through the TSA screening process and to the gate to watch a plane land. Once the passengers had left the plane the students were able to board the plane where they met the crew. After departing the plane, they were able to watch the plane take off. In 2023, the program was formalized by the Palm Beach County Department of Airports and is now known as “PBI’s Great Airport Adventure with Avelo Airlines” and was expanded to include four tours. More than 50 students have taken the tour. One student said, “This place is way better than I expected … It’s got a dinosaur exhibit, a billiard table and a whole shopping area. The results allow the students to experience air travel and will help them and their family to enjoy air travel.