Wings for Autism to land at RDU; helps alleviate stress of flying for those with disabilities

The program is set for 1 p.m., Aug. 19, at the airport and is open to those with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the Triangle and beyond. It's free and includes a lunch afterwards. The Arc of the Triangle, Allegiant Airlines, TSA and The Arc of NC are bringing the program to the Triangle.

“It is such a privilege to be able to offer this rare opportunity to our families. Many of us take air travel for granted. It’s fantastic for us to be able to actualize this experience to support individuals with disabilities.” said The Arc of the Triangle’s Executive Director Jennifer Pfaltzgraff in a press release. “I met a mom at a resource fair and when I told her about the event she cried! She shared with me that her child had never met his grandmother, who lived in Texas, because she was afraid to make that investment in case it didn’t work out. Now she is so excited to at least be able to expose her child to a big part of traveling.”

During the event, according to the description, participants will check in to receive their boarding passes, pass through the TSA security checkpoint, wait in the boarding area and board the aircraft.

The program will feature a presentation on the aircraft’s features, in-flight safety protocols and take-off procedures, according to the description. Wings for Autism also will give airport, airline, TSA professionals and other personnel the opportunity to observe, interact and deliver their services in a structured, learning environment.