The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) has launched a program designed to support travelers with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in navigating the airport and air travel experience at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). The Wings for All event was held in EWR’s Terminal A and organized in partnership with advocacy organizations The Arc of Essex County and The Arc of New Jersey (which founded the program in 2014), as well as volunteers and staff from United Airlines and Transportation Security Administration. The program welcomed 160 participants to rehearse the security screening process, terminal navigation and boarding procedure; visit the terminal’s sensory room; and provide feedback to volunteers and EWR staff on how to improve services for travelers with disabilities.
“Our ongoing collaboration with The Arc is essential in helping us better understand and meet the unique needs of individuals with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities,” said Port Authority chairman Kevin O’Toole. “We are committed to making travel through our airports as smooth and accessible as possible for everyone, and this partnership is a critical part of that effort. We look forward to participating in programs and initiatives that help make our facilities more inclusive for all passengers.”
“I know firsthand how important it is to create an environment that is welcoming and accommodating to everyone, especially families like mine who are traveling with an individual with IDD,” added Port Authority vice chair Jeffrey Lynford. “This event helps ensure that we are doing everything we can to make air travel a positive experience for all families, regardless of their needs.”
“For many, visiting the airport is a routine step in their journey. “For children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, however, the intense lights, loud sounds, and bustling crowds can make the airport an intimidating and stressful place,” said Linda C. Lucas, CEO of The Arc of Essex County “This is why The Arc of Essex County is so pleased to once again host Wings for All alongside our incredible partners, including The Arc of New Jersey, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, United Airlines, and Newark Liberty International Airport. This hands-on airport experience simulation will equip our families with the preparation needed for crucial future travels, whether for vacations or family visits. We received so much gratitude and appreciation last year, and could not be more thrilled to once again offer this meaningful experience to families.”
