Get ready for takeoff! Miami International Airport (MIA) and American Airlines are preparing to host another heartwarming event, the MIA Airport Instruction and Readiness (MIAair) tour. This special program is set to welcome over 40 children with special needs from local schools, along with their parents or guardians, for a simulated air travel experience.
The MIAair tour is designed to provide a safe and exciting learning opportunity for these young participants. From check-in to boarding an American Airlines flight, the tour meticulously replicates the entire air travel experience, allowing children to explore the world of aviation in a controlled environment. The event encourages interaction and engagement, with children participating in a variety of activities, including obtaining boarding passes, navigating security checkpoints, and even taking a seat on an actual aircraft with the assistance of gate agents and flight crew.
This initiative not only brings joy and excitement to these special needs children, but also provides valuable training opportunities for MIA’s airline and airport personnel. By simulating real-world scenarios, the MIAair program helps to ensure that airport staff are equipped to provide a welcoming and inclusive experience for all travelers, regardless of their abilities.
The MIAair program, which was launched in 2015 in collaboration with the UM-NSU Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD), has already positively impacted over 200 children with special needs. This upcoming event is poised to build upon this success, further promoting inclusivity and accessibility within the world of air travel. As the Thanksgiving and winter holiday travel season approaches, MIA and American Airlines are dedicated to creating memorable moments for all, ensuring that the magic of flying is accessible to everyone.
