Flying on an Airplane with Child with Autism

updated 1/2023

Flying in an airplane with a child with autism can be a huge challenge for parents. Since I love to travel, it makes my heart hurt to think that some parents will not attempt airplane travel with their child with autism. Yet, it can be done! Success can depend upon thorough planning, preparation and anticipating the needs of the child. Do you have students whose families are planning a summer trip? Perhaps you are a parent of a child with autism looking for some ideas to make travel easier. Here are some tips for airplane travel and navigating the airport with a child with autism!

1. Plan multiple airport visits well ahead of the trip.

Start going in advance of your trip as you may need to go multiple times to desensitize your child to the sights and noises of the airport.

2. Use the calendar to build anticipation!

Start talking about the trip while viewing a calendar. As the departure date approaches, cross each day off the calendar.

3. Explore airport resources for children with autism.

Some major airports have programs that will help children with autism on the flight or at the airport. Contact your airport to see if they have programs that allow your child to prepare for the flight such as spending time at the airport and rehearsing the process of going through security.

4. Pack wisely.

Pack a bag with the child’s favorite items, including an I pad and a charger that can be used on the airplane. Put a new game on it too. Have a change of clothes and gum available.

5. Call the airline and explore resources.

Many airlines have policies to help children with disabilities. Discuss any concerns you have about the trip (food, seating, going through security, etc.) If you need anything in advance, plan it with the reservation specialist.

6. Early boarding.

When you approach the gate, tell the person at check-in that you would like early boarding because you have a child with a disability.

7. Consider length of flight.

If you are taking a long flight, beyond you child’s “sitting quietly” abilities, consider a lay-over at a halfway point.

8. Pre-teach expectations.

Use a social story about flying in a plane to help prepare the child. Social Story: Airports and Flying on a Plane!

9. Plan for sensory issues and comfort.

Will your child be sleeping on the plane? Have a blanket or other security Item available. Consider headphones, weighted blanket and other items that are soothing and help to regulate your child. Does your child have food aversions? If there is a meal on the flight, see if you can can order something in advance that your child will eat.

10. Reinforce good behavior.

For every period of the flight (say 30 minutes) that the child has not kicked the seat in front of him/her, have a reward available. In my opinion, this is the time to pull out all the stops, including rewards.

11. Seating on plane.

Plan ahead by getting your child a window seat if that will keep him/her busy. A window seat is a good option if you expect your child may try to exit their seat as you can serve as a barrier.

12. Hydrate your child!

Keep your child hydrated especially if it is a long trip to combat fatigue and jet lag.

13. Consider high interests!

Does your child has a high interest in anything related to flying or your destination? Bring a new book or toy with you about this high interest topic. The goal is to keep the child interested in something on the trip. In my airplane and airport packet, I provide links to clips about clouds and a cloud diary.

14. Bring another adult.

Bring someone for moral support and someone who can help you and make it as pleasurable a trip as possible!

15. Engage the help of your child’s therapy or school team!

Tell the child’s team of professionals about your travel plans. Ask for suggestions and help with planning for the airplane and airport trip! You might also be interested in this post on Making a Visual Schedule in case you want to bring some visuals with you.