Appleton Airport conducts travel test run to ease stress for travelers with Autism

APPLETON (WLUK) -- The Appleton International Airport hosted an event aimed at easing the stress of travel for those with Autism.

Saturday, families showed up for 'Wings for Autism,' which was hosted in collaboration with Air Wisconsin and the TSA.

The airport created a travel test run for those with Autism and their families, helping them prepare for what a real travel day might look like.

Organizers say these events can help ease an is an otherwise stressful situation for some.

"Go through everything from the check-in process to going through TSA, sitting at the gate, listening to the boarding announcements, to finding your seat on a plane, to going to baggage claim. So all of that helps reduce anxiety for travelers with Autism," says Jesse Funk, the Air Service and Business Development Manager at ATW.

The event isn't just for families or those with Autism, either. It also helps airport and airline professionals prepare for all travelers, and enhances their services.