Emirates expands ‘Autism-Friendly’ travel initiative to Istanbul

Turkey

Travel Rehearsal programme offers structured airport experience for autistic children / Istanbul Airport joins growing network of participating destinations

Emirates has introduced its Travel Rehearsal programme at Istanbul Airport (IGA), extending the airline’s accessibility initiatives to Turkey. The programme enables autistic children and their families to experience the full airport and travel process in a controlled, supportive environment prior to an actual journey.

The initiative forms part of Emirates’ broader “Accessible Travel for All” strategy and is being progressively implemented across 17 airports within the airline’s global network. The concept is designed to make air travel more predictable for individuals on the autism spectrum by familiarising participants with procedures, sensory environments and operational routines.

Simulating the travel journey

During the Istanbul event, participants were guided through each stage of the passenger journey, including airport arrival, check-in, passport control, lounge access and an aircraft tour. The rehearsal format allows families to understand and prepare for potential stress factors associated with air travel, helping to reduce anxiety and build confidence.

Mehmet Gurkaynak, Emirates Country Manager for Turkey, Romania and Bulgaria, highlighted the significance of the programme’s expansion. “Last year, Emirates became the world’s first Autism-Certified Airline, demonstrating the airline’s long-term commitment to accessible travel. Through the efforts of Emirates’ Autism Centre and our partners at IGA, we are proud to bring this initiative to Istanbul.”

He emphasised the role of collaboration in advancing inclusive travel practices. “This milestone reflects the importance of working with like-minded stakeholders to ensure a more inclusive travel industry.”

Training as the foundation of accessibility

Emirates’ accessibility framework is underpinned by extensive staff training. The airline became the world’s first Autism-Certified Airline after more than 30,000 cabin crew and ground employees completed specialised autism awareness programmes.

The training focuses on understanding the autism spectrum, recognising common challenges during travel and applying individualised support strategies. The objective is to equip frontline teams with practical tools to respond effectively to passengers with diverse accessibility requirements.

Growing global rollout

Emirates has already conducted Travel Rehearsal programmes at multiple international gateways, including Dubai, Barcelona, Brussels, Budapest, Christchurch, Durban, Istanbul, Luanda, Madrid, Nice, Oslo, Paris and Venice. The airline reports that additional destinations are being added on a regular basis.

Further information is available at www.emirates.com.