Making Kurdistan Region’s airports autism-friendly
In recent years, there are more airports recognising the need to be more inclusive and friendly towards individuals with autism. We are actively trying to make Kurdistan Region more inclusive of those with autism.
I sympathise and understand that the region is geopolitically sensitive, faces internal and external threats. Despite this, I believe that the current political circumstance should not hold us back from attempting to make the region as inclusive of those with disabilities as possible.
The right circumstances and environment will never transpire, and that’s why at Hope Autism Society, we are calling for our supporters to endorse this initiative, where we are asking the Kurdistan Regional Government to make airports more accessible to those with autism.
We are calling for the local airports to allow people with autism to use the business lane during check-in and arrivals. This would make the experience better for those with autism, and reduce the risk of being overwhelmed by the experience.
Adults and children with autism are on a spectrum, and airports tend to be a negative experience for many. We are hoping both the Erbil International Airport (EIA) and Sulaymaniyah International airport (SIA) will support one or more of the following to enable an easier airport experience for those with autism.
- Passports for those with autism — certified passports given to parents of children with autism or adults with autism, can be approved by the airport prior to travel. This practice is adopted by several airports in the United Kingdom.
- Lanyards — There exists a risk that families may be reluctant to use them because of the stigma attached to autism within Kurdistan in general.
- Familiarisation visits — Flying for the first time can be very scary for children with autism. Bringing them to the airport, and familiarising them with the environment can help reassure them once they are ready to take the trip.
- Visual guides or booklets (for parents and adults with autism)
- Online guides or downloadable booklets
- Quiet area (if possible, having a place for children with autism where they might need quiet time or a more calming atmosphere because airports tend to be very crowded/busy.
Why does this matter?
When we make our societies and communities more inclusive, we effectively enrich our communities by making it more understanding and progressive. Families and people with disabilities in the Kurdistan Region are more likely than others to experience the adverse socioeconomic impact of their disability.
We have an opportunity to create a culture where those most vulnerable are not left behind, and are accommodated for in society. The above initiative does not cost money or disrupt the activities of the airport(s) within the region, but simply makes a small adjust towards making the region more inclusive, receptive and understanding to those living with autism.
