A TSA security checkpoint at Appleton International Airport in Greenville is seen June 16, 2021. PC: Fox 11 Online
APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Appleton airport officials are leading the charge to make traveling easier for individuals with autism.
Leaders at Appleton International Airport know air travel can be crowded, noisy and overwhelming — making it especially uncomfortable for people with autism and sensory issues.
In honor of Wednesday being World Autism Awareness Day, ATW hosted representatives from the Autism Society of the Fox Valley to highlight features designed to accommodate some travelers’ special needs.
“We work very hard on our customer journey, making sure that every person coming through the terminal has a fast and easy connection. We certainly understand that individuals on the autism spectrum or with neurodivergent challenges may require some additional resources, so we’ve partnered with the Autism Society locally to make sure that we can provide additional resources for individuals,” said ATW Airport Director Abe Weber.
The airport has offered services and amenities for individuals with sensory issues since 2021. ATW’s current terminal features two quiet rooms that offer a tranquil, managed space for travelers who feel overstimulated, overwhelmed or just need a quiet moment. These rooms are available both before and after passing through security checks.
Additionally, ATW’s airport expansion project was designed to make the travel experience more smooth for both neurodivergent individuals and those with other disabilities.
- The concourse will feature a sensory support room for any neurodivergent traveler who might be overwhelmed by a typical airport setting. This is one of the few airports in the nation to have space set aside for this purpose.
- ATW will have expanded restroom facilities including family restrooms that are universal gender so parents can more easily accompany children with sensory issues.
- The concourse design includes more daylighting to mimic the outdoors and decrease any sensitivity individuals may have to artificial light.
- The connector area will be on a gradual incline eliminating the need for escalators. This will make going through the airport with strollers or wheelchairs much easier.
Siraya Gloudemans is a mother of three and a board member for the Autism Society of the Fox Valley. Her oldest child, Nolan, is non-verbal and autistic, requiring significant support. Her family plans their travel through ATW because of the special programs and services the airport provides.
“We don’t fly anywhere else,” Gloudemans said. “We always try to start here because we know that it’s a small environment, we know what to expect. We know that there is a sensory room available and that we have accommodations here available to us. That makes a very difficult adventure a little bit more tolerable for him, but also for us, knowing that we are able to provide him the safety that he seeks and needs.”
Since 2024, ATW has been part of the Hidden Disabilities program. Airport staffers wear a sunflower badge to show they have been trained to recognize individuals with non-visible disabilities and to discreetly offer additional support, understanding or simply a little more time to get through the airport.
Travelers can also get assistance from a TSA Passenger Support Specialist at ATW. Those individuals have received specialized training to aid and communicate with individuals with disabilities needing help through the screening process.
ATW is set to host its Wings for Autism event May 17. This serves as an “airport rehearsal” for individuals with autism spectrum disorder, their families and aviation professionals. Families can expose their children to the process of walking into an airport, getting a boarding pass, going through security, walking through the concourse and boarding a plane. Click here to register.
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