News in brief: Winnipeg Airport launches Passenger Rehearsal Program

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 04/08/2020 (1976 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Travellers with a disability can get a little more assistance when they fly from Winnipeg.

Residents can sign up for a personalized tour of Winnipeg’s Richardson International Airport, where the guide will review every step of the travelling process before they get on the plane. According to a news release, the goal is to create a more inclusive, approachable and enjoyable experience for everyone moving through their airport.

“Winnipeg Airports Authority recognised the need to offer more specialised tours, especially for those individuals who may require more time or have conditions that require special consideration,” said Kirk Goodlet, director, airport services and lead guide for the passenger rehearsal program, in a news release. “This can be the case for individuals with autism spectrum disorder or Alzheimer’s disease, who may be sensitive to the many stimuli typical to airports, such as high frequency noises at security checkpoints or densely populated areas.”

The program is available year-round to all travellers. The tour can be arranged close to a resident’s date of travel, which will let them mirror their upcoming itinerary. This can help individuals with autism spectrum disorder feel more comfortable by providing consistency. An airport guide will be available to answer any questions and provide accommodations to make the experience easier.

In the release, Inclusion Winnipeg’s executive director janet Forbes, said the organization commends the airport for its “leadership in creating an inclusive and accessible travel experience for everyone by taking their customer service to a new and exciting level.”

“Starting from their arrival at the airport and through all the steps to being in their seat and onto their destination, this experience will help to relieve the anxiety of not knowing what to expect,” Forbes said.

All tours must be booked ahead of time. To sign up for the passenger rehearsal program, email info@waa.ca or call their information booth at 204-987-9402.