HOUSTON — Traveling can be a challenge for any family, but especially for families of children with sensory issues.

On April 24, 2018, the Houston Airport System, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and The Arc of Texas team up to offer a chance to make the idea of air travel a little less daunting for families with children with autism or other intellectual disabilities. On that day, the latest Wings for All® event will be held at George Bush Intercontinental Airport. Wings for All® is program of The Arc of the United States that provides families with a real-life simulation of the air travel experience.

Local families can find more details and register for the event online at this link. Deadline to register for the event is April 16, 2018. Due to TSA regulations, families interested in attending the event must register in advance, and substitutions on the day of the event are not allowed. Anyone over the age of 18 participating must have a valid photo ID with them. The TSA website has a list of all acceptable IDs which include, a driver’s license, United States passport or valid U.S. military ID.

Through Wings for All®, families of children with autism and intellectual disabilities practice going through the airport and getting onboard an aircraft, so that when it is time to travel on an actual trip, they are more familiar with the process and their surroundings. During this event, held twice a year at Bush Airport, families practice obtaining boarding passes, passing through TSA security, waiting in the boarding area and boarding an airplane. While on the plane, they buckle up, enjoy a beverage and snack, and listen to the captain's announcements. They can familiarize themselves with the seats, tray tables and aircraft restrooms. Wings for All® also gives the airport, airline and TSA professionals the opportunity to observe, interact and deliver their services in a structured, learning environment.

This event is held in partnership with The Arc of United States, the Doug Flutie Foundation, The Arc of Greater Houston, The Arc of Fort Bend County, and The Arc of Texas.

Learn more about The Arc and its programs at this link.