Manchester Airport Champions Inclusive Travel: Essential Tips and Support for Autistic Passengers

(IN SHORT) On World Autism Awareness Day, Manchester Airport highlights essential tips and support measures for autistic travelers and their companions, addressing the challenges posed by the busy airport environment. Recognizing that even small disruptions can cause significant stress, the airport recommends choosing short-haul, direct flights and avoiding peak travel times. Practical advice includes selecting seating that eases boarding, packing comfort items like noise-cancelling headphones, and utilizing resources such as a video journey guide and checklist to familiarize oneself with the airport process. The airport supports neurodivergent passengers through the Sunflower Lanyard scheme, dedicated assistance at check-in and security, and quiet areas like the Sunflower Room. Additional measures such as tailored security protocols and clear guidance on handling medication help reduce travel anxiety. These initiatives reflect Manchester Airport’s commitment to inclusivity and ensuring that travel is accessible for everyone.

(PRESS RELEASE) MANCHESTER, 2025-Apr-3 — /Travel PR News/ — In the UK, about one in 100 people are autistic, and any disruption to their established routine can trigger stress and anxiety. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by autistic travelers and their companions, especially in the busy environment of an airport—with its rigorous security checks and round-the-clock flight schedules—Manchester Airport is sharing essential tips and detailed guidance on the support available on World Autism Awareness Day.

For those planning a trip, Manchester Airport advises selecting shorter journeys and direct flights to reduce travel-related stress. With its extensive network offering direct flights to over 200 destinations, the airport provides options to minimize complications often associated with connecting flights. Travelers who are sensitive to crowded spaces are encouraged to avoid peak periods such as school summer holidays, and to opt for late morning or mid-afternoon flights rather than the busiest early morning slots.

When booking flights, careful attention to seating is recommended. Choosing seats that facilitate easier boarding and deplaning can reduce discomfort, and passengers should consider avoiding window seats if they may lead to distress.

Packing for the journey might involve adding extra comfort items. Earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones can help manage sensory overload, while a favorite comfort object, such as a stuffed toy, might provide reassurance in busy terminal areas. To help mitigate the uncertainty of airport processes, it can be beneficial to walk through the steps beforehand, using a checklist or the video journey guide available on the Manchester Airport website, which outlines the stages from check-in to boarding.

Manchester Airport supports autistic passengers by recognizing the Sunflower Lanyard scheme. These lanyards, available free at the Special Assistance desks in each terminal, signal to staff that the wearer may need extra time or assistance. Additionally, airlines offer dedicated Assistance or Priority check-in and pre-boarding services, and specialized lanes at Security and Immigration are available for passengers with non-visible disabilities to reduce waiting times. For those who might be overwhelmed by sensory input, bypass options for the World Duty Free area can be arranged through the Special Assistance team.

At Terminal 1, a dedicated Sunflower Room provides a quiet refuge away from the hustle of the main Departure Lounge, while quiet seating areas are also available in Terminals 2 and 3.

Security procedures have been adapted with extra care for passengers with non-visible disabilities. Staff are trained to conduct manual searches in a private, respectful manner when necessary, providing clear explanations and extra time to ensure comfort. To avoid the need for such searches, passengers are advised to follow security guidelines precisely, such as emptying pockets and removing outer layers of clothing before passing through body scanners.

For those traveling with medication, especially liquids exceeding 100ml or items like needles and syringes, carrying a doctor’s note or prescription is recommended to ease the security process.

For a more relaxed pre-flight experience, passengers are encouraged to plan their time in the Departure Lounge by checking guides available on the airport website, which include detailed information on dining, shopping, and lounge services. Manchester Airport’s lounges, such as Escape and 1903, offer a serene escape from the bustling terminal, complete with buffet and bar services.

Finally, Jennifer Byrne-Smith, Customer Operations Director at Manchester Airport, emphasizes the airport’s commitment to making travel accessible for everyone: “We’re proud to connect people from across the North to the places they want to travel to, but we recognize that for people with Autism, a busy airport might seem daunting. We are determined that autism and neurodivergence should not be barriers to travel. Our £1.3bn investment in Terminal 2 has been designed with this in mind.”

Media contact:

Michael Murphy-Pyle
Head of Media
07565 178 364
photo:Alex Nash
Alex Nash
Media Lead

SOURCE: The Manchester Airports Group plc.