Over 140 autistic individuals, parents, families, and allies gathered with Autism Ontario staff at Pearson Airport’s Terminal 3 on a recent Sunday morning in early October for Ready, Set, Fly — a unique event designed to help autistics and their families experience the world of air travel in a calm, supportive way.

Now in its third year, and organized in partnership with Air Transat and Toronto Pearson Airport, the event has already helped hundreds of autistic people prepare for one of life’s most exciting — and often most challenging — experiences: flying. The event included check-in, security screening, boarding, and a simulated flight aboard an Air Transat Airbus A330 jet, where flight crew provided onboard snacks and cockpit tours.

Adding an extra touch of fun, representatives from LEGO Canada hosted a creative play station at check-in, turning what could have been a stressful wait into a moment of imagination and play.

“Ready Set, Fly is important because it allows families to experience something that can be very stimulating before their flight,” says Kim Tran, People and Family Experience Coordinator at Autism Ontario. Kim, along with Jason Aguilar Montoya, People and Family Experience Supervisor at Autism Ontario, attended the event. “It lets them understand the process of what they need to do, so it takes the pressure off them,” says Kim.

“At Toronto Pearson, we’re committed to creating a smooth, safe, and enjoyable airport experience for all. We want every passenger to feel welcome and confident as they experience the joys of air travel,” said Christina Iacovino, Director, Customer Experience and Development, Toronto Pearson. “By working closely with our partners and listening to passengers’ experiences at events like ‘Ready, Set, Fly...with YYZ,’ we learn valuable lessons that help us reduce barriers and make air travel more inclusive."

Many families discussed their experiences at the most recent Ready Set Fly, including Will, who was at the event with this autistic daughter, Sophia. Will recalls that travelling with Sophia was challenging, primarily because of her sensory issues. “I wanted her to be a little bit more aware of things..., and, you know, just be a little bit more informed how things work at the airport, and also just to build her confidence.”

“I'm starting them early, and I want them to feel comfortable,” says Jesseth, who came to the airport with her children, Jazz and Anna. “I want them to feel accepted and [be around] people that understand them. We've not been on a plane yet, so I'm so grateful that we have an opportunity to do this together and have that experience to get them ready for an actual flight.”

“It will make a huge difference,” says Nadia, who also brought her children, Rocco, Nico, and Alessia, to the event. She said it’s important to be at an event that recognizes that children may have specific needs. It’s also an opportunity, says Nadia, for her children to familiarize themselves with the airport process. Would an event like Ready Set Fly have been possible before? Nadia shakes her head, “No.”

It’s because of donations to Autism Ontario, says Kim, that events like Ready Set Fly are possible and will continue to serve the autism community. “This program would not be possible without the donations we receive.”