Gold Coast Airport (GCA), in partnership with Jetstar and Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect), hosted its inaugural Fly Ready Day on 17 October, providing people with accessibility needs an opportunity to trial the airport journey and build confidence in a supported environment before taking a real trip.  

Participants included people who are autistic or neurodivergent, people who use wheelchairs, are blind or have vision loss, and people who experience phobias around flying.  

Together with their support people, participants were guided through both the departure and arrival journeys, including check-in, bag drop and security screening, through to boarding a Jetstar aircraft, disembarking and collecting baggage.

A participant in a wheelchair is assisted through the security screening lane, with a Screening Assistance sign highlighting the support available for passengers with different accessibility needs. 

Queensland Airports Limited Chief Operating Officer Marion Charlton said the Fly Ready Day provided a valuable opportunity to look at the passenger journey through a different lens.  

“The airport journey involves many different processes and touchpoints, and we want each of those to be as accessible as possible for every traveller," Ms Charlton said.  

“Our Fly Ready Day not only gives people the chance to build confidence and familiarity with the airport journey it also helps us and our partners identify potential barriers and opportunities to improve.

“It was also a great chance to showcase some of the support already available to travellers, whether that’s assistance at security screening or from one of our friendly GCA Ambassadors, through to accessibility initiatives like our Changing Places Facility, quiet rooms, therapy dogs and Sunflower Lanyard Program.

"We're on a mission to become Australia's most accessible airport, and hearing directly from people with lived experience about what works well and where we can improve is an important part of getting there."

Jetstar Executive Manager Customer and Digital Prue McKenzie said initiatives like Fly Ready Day play an important role in helping more people access air travel.

“Travel opens up so many opportunities, whether it’s visiting family and friends, taking a holiday or attending an important event, and we want everyone to feel confident when they fly with us.

“Fly Ready Day gives participants the chance to experience the airport and flight journey ahead of time. It helps take the uncertainty out of travel and builds confidence for when they’re ready to take their trip.”

Dr Tom Tutton, Head of Aspect Autism Friendly said for many Autistic people and their families, travelling through an airport can be an anxious and overwhelming experience.  

“From busy terminals and check-in, to security screening and boarding, there are many unfamiliar processes, sensory challenges and uncertainties like delays that can make air travel stressful,” he said.

“Events like this provide a valuable opportunity for Autistic people to experience each stage of the airport journey in a supportive environment, helping build familiarity, confidence and a better understanding of what to expect when they travel. They also give airport staff important insights into the experiences and needs of Autistic travellers.  

“We commend Gold Coast Airport on its commitment to creating an environment where everyone feels supported and confident to participate.”

Learn more about accessibility at GCA