In November, Autism Double Checked was proud to bring Autism Flies back to Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport (PVD) for our third practice boarding event in Providence, once again in partnership with Breeze Airways and our generous airport partners at PVD.
Autism Flies is designed to help individuals with autism and their families practice the full airport and flying experience in a supportive, low pressure environment. From check in and TSA security to boarding, in flight announcements, snack service, and deplaning, families are able to experience every step of air travel on a plane that never leaves the gate.
Practice Makes Progress and Every Win Counts
As always, success at Autism Flies looked different for every family, and that is exactly how it should be.
• For some participants, making it through TSA security was a meaningful achievement.
• For others, stepping onto the jetway was a big milestone.
• And for many, boarding the aircraft and settling into a seat was the highlight of the night.
One of our favorite moments came when a young guest was invited to speak over the cockpit PA system, proudly announcing, “It was a smooth flight!” Moments like these, joyful, empowering, and confidence building, are what Autism Flies is all about.
We were especially excited to welcome several families who had participated in previous Autism Flies events, alongside many first time attendees. One family shared that their experience at an Autism Flies session earlier this year had been very challenging, but this time, everything felt much easier. Stories like this reinforce one of our core beliefs: families are welcome to come back as often as they need, because practice truly does make progress.
Gratitude for our Partners
Events like this are only possible thanks to strong, committed partners and an incredible community.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport (PVD) for hosting us and continuing to champion inclusive travel, to Breeze Airways whose flight crew and team consistently went above and beyond with patience, care, and professionalism, and to Margaritaville Hotels and Resorts, a valued Autism Double Checked partner who added extra excitement by providing one hundred dollar vouchers to two lucky families through an onboard raffle.
We are deeply grateful to every family, volunteer, and partner who helped make this Autism Flies event so meaningful.
Looking Ahead
Autism Flies continues to open doors for families by helping make air travel feel possible, manageable, and eventually enjoyable. We look forward to bringing future events to more communities in the months ahead.
If your family is interested in participating in a future Autism Flies event, you can learn more and join a waitlist here:
https://autismchecked.com/autism-flies/
Together, we are building confidence, reducing barriers, and creating more inclusive travel experiences, one practice flight at a time.
