Participants at the boarding gate as part of the inaugural Autism Aviation Day at Kamloops Airport (Image Credit: Canucks Autism Network)

By Victor Kaisar

Autism Awareness

Inaugural Autism Aviation day takes flight at Kamloops Airport

May 10, 2025 | 5:18 PM

KAMLOOPS — Nearly two dozen families with children on the autism spectrum were at Kamloops Airport Saturday (May 10) morning for the inaugural Autism Aviation Day in the Tournament Capital.

The event, which was organized by the Canucks Autism Network (CAN) in collaboration with Air Canada, gave 20 families the opportunity to experience the entire pre-flight process “without the pressure of a real trip.”

Jenny Carwana, the Manager of Accessibility Initiatives and Partnerships at Canucks Autism Network told CFJC Today that the event simulates every stage of the airport experience from check in to security screenings, all the way to boarding the aircraft in preparation for departure.

“There was a short taxi of the plane around the airport so families could experience getting seated, buckled, and what it was like for the plane turn on and move,” Carwana said. “This is very valuable for individuals on the spectrum with sensory sensitives.”

“By getting a ‘practice run’ we hope to increase predictability and decrease anxiety associated with the travel experience.”

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A similar event has been held at Vancouver International Airport for the past several years. It expanded to Victoria Airport in 2023 after Air Canada came on board as an airline partner, and has now made its way to Kamloops for the first time.

“We are expanding the event to Kamloops in order to reach CAN Families and participants that live in the region,” Carwana added.

“This event not only empowers individuals on the autism spectrum to experience the joy of travel, but it also strengthens our commitment to building inclusive community spaces.”

For more about about Autism Aviation Day, go here.