How to Get Through Airport Security Easier If Your Children Have Special Needs
Flying is almost always of some concern, but for parents traveling with children with special needs such as autism, the mere thought of navigating a sensory hurricane that is a busy airport can be terrifying. Crowds, queues, announcements through loudspeakers, orders to remove shoes, spontaneous searches are often too many. But one mom shared a social media tip that can take the stress out of families: Before you travel, call TSA Cares (855-787-2227) to have a passenger support specialist guide you through security.
Angie Solis wrote an eloquent letter to the TSA, thanking them for an enjoyable travel experience with her autistic son. In an Instagram post shared by TSA , Solis describes how she found herself in “an alarmed frenzy” staring at hundreds of people waiting to pass the checkpoint – when her passenger support specialist Alicia showed up. “With her superpowers, [Alicia] lifted the partition, led us through it, and escorted us to the beginning of the line,” writes Solis. “We went through a rigorous security check when no one touched us or even spoke a lot. We didn’t even have to take off our shoes. ” Total time from the moment they entered the airfield to the moment they landed at the gate: fourteen minutes.
The TSA Cares helpline was opened in 2011, but travelers may not be aware of its existence. Passengers with disabilities, illnesses and special needs can request a Passenger Support Specialist to assist you on the spot. Just call the hotline three days before departure. As Solis notes in his letter, you will not be exempt from security – her son still went through the scanner and all of their bags were checked. She believes the service is simply recognizing that “some people just handle differently and need more help.”
Here are some more tips for flying with an autistic child:
- Prepare your child. Shannon Airport has several step-by-step videos that show travelers what awaits them, from arriving at the airport to landing.
- Do a training run. Arc’s Wings for Autism allows autistic passengers to have a “rehearsal” at the airport before departure.
- Request priority boarding. When booking, inform the airline that you need priority seats and inform the service staff of your request upon arrival.
- Print and complete the TSA Disability Notice Card . This allows TSA agents to know your specific needs.
- Bring comforting items. For example, if your child is sensitive to loud sounds, be sure to bring noise canceling headphones with you.