Air Canada and the Air Canada Foundation have wrapped up another successful year of Autism Aviation Days events, significantly expanding the program to reach families across the country.
The initiative provides children on the autism spectrum with hands-on experience navigating the air travel process, from check-in through boarding and aircraft taxiing, helping to reduce anxiety for both children and their families.
The 2025 program saw dramatic growth compared to the previous year. With support from Jazz Aviation and PAL Airlines, seven events took place in Vancouver, Kamloops, Calgary, St. John's, Quebec City, Winnipeg and Edmonton. This expansion helped over 450 children and their families, a substantial increase from the 125 families served during the four events held in 2024.
"Autism Aviation Days expanded significantly this year," said Brigitte St-Pierre, Director of Official Languages and Community Engagement at Air Canada. "We were able to offer this experience to more families from coast to coast, and we look forward to continuing this meaningful initiative next year."
The program originated from a suggestion by a Certified Autism Travel Professional based in Victoria, BC, who approached Edna Ray, Senior Manager of Regional Sales at Air Canada. The first event took place at Victoria International Airport, and demand has grown steadily since.
Partner organizations praised the initiative's impact. Paul Walsh, CEO of the Autism Society of Newfoundland & Labrador, described witnessing families breaking through barriers that had previously prevented them from traveling together. Johanne Potvin, Vice President of the Fondation de l'autisme de Québec, highlighted how over 60 people gained valuable first-hand experience with airport procedures during the Quebec City event.
The Air Canada Foundation continues its focus on supporting the health and well-being of children and youth through various programs throughout Canada.
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