Emirates airline boosts efforts to help passengers with disabilities

Emirates airline has trained tens of thousands of staff to help passengers with disabilities such as autism enjoy a stress-free journey. The Dubai-based carrier on Thursday announced it also implemented additional measures to help passengers during the flight. It comes ahead of World Autism Awareness Day on April 2. In the UAE, people with autism and other disabilities are known as people of determination. For some travellers with such disabilities, the airport and aircraft experience may feel too noisy, too bright, too unfamiliar or too busy. To help them, Emirates has trained more than 24,000 of its cabin crew and ground staff on its “Introduction to Autism and Hidden Disabilities” programme. The online course covers a range of topics from the UAE National Policy for People of Determination such as tips on how to assist passengers with hidden disabilities. Emirates also said it aims to facilitate passengers as much as possible in the complimentary selection of suitable seats. Other measures include the ability to apply a special “DPNA” code when booking to show the airline a passenger with needs will be flying; being able to order a special meal; help with boarding; and helping to seat passengers with disabilities next to their companion. Emirates also collaborated with Dubai International Airport on a comprehensive guide for passengers with hidden disabilities.<br/>