| Title: |
Autistic-Led Insights on Airport Accessibility: A Retrospective Analysis of Environmental Assessments |
| Language: |
English |
| Authors: |
Chris Edwards (ORCID 0000-0002-0617-674X); Abigail M. A. Love (ORCID 0000-0002-6647-9814); Ru Ying Cai (ORCID 0000-0002-2954-0495); Tom Tutton; Emma Beardsley; Vicki Gibbs (ORCID 0000-0001-5058-5164) |
| Source: |
Autism: The International Journal of Research and Practice. 2025 29(8):2151-2162. |
| Availability: |
SAGE Publications. 2455 Teller Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320. Tel: 800-818-7243; Tel: 805-499-9774; Fax: 800-583-2665; e-mail: journals@sagepub.com; Web site: https://sagepub.com |
| Peer Reviewed: |
Y |
| Page Count: |
12 |
| Publication Date: |
2025 |
| Document Type: |
Journal Articles; Reports - Research |
| Descriptors: |
Autism Spectrum Disorders; Accessibility (for Disabled); Air Transportation; Barriers; Navigation; Sensory Experience; Physical Environment; Evaluation Methods; Evidence Based Practice |
| DOI: |
10.1177/13623613251337200 |
| ISSN: |
1362-3613; 1461-7005 |
| Abstract: |
Autistic people often encounter significant barriers when navigating airports, largely due to overwhelming sensory environments, stringent security procedures, and crowded spaces. This study aimed to enhance understanding of airport accessibility by retrospectively analyzing reports from Autistic-led environmental assessments conducted at six Australian airports between 2017 and 2024. Drawing on an evidence-informed autism-friendly framework, the assessments focused on eight key elements, including sensory adaptations, communication supports, and preparation and predictability. Through reflexive thematic analysis, two key themes were generated: (1) navigating the sensory landscape and (2) help passengers navigate with confidence. Our findings underscore the importance of sensory adjustments--such as natural lighting and quiet spaces--alongside clearer visual aids and communication supports. Importantly, this study represents the first systematic application of autism-friendly principles to airport environments, offering practical, evidence-based recommendations for more inclusive design. By foregrounding the perspectives of Autistic individuals, this research highlights the need for participatory design approaches to create public spaces that are genuinely accessible and supportive for Autistic travelers |
| Abstractor: |
As Provided |
| Entry Date: |
2025 |
| Accession Number: |
EJ1476902 |
| Database: |
ERIC |