JetBlue and Autism Speaks Host “Blue Horizons for Autism” Events in Los Angeles and New York

Last week, JetBlue and Autism Speaks hosted Blue Horizons for Autism program events at Burbank’s Bob Hope Airport and New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). These events were designed to provide families and individuals affected by autism with the unique opportunity to navigate their air travel experience in a realistic, relaxed, and controlled environment. Trained crewmembers were able to help children with autism and their families walk through the airport check-in, security, and boarding processes.

At the events, the families were able to practice with their children inside our stationary aircraft, giving the children a feel for sitting on a plane, as well as fastening a seatbelt and being served by an inflight crewmember. Our pilots were also onboard and gave the children and their families a tour of the cockpit.

At JFK, the plane taxied around the airport to help the participants get used to the motion of the aircraft and in Burbank, Mayor Bob Frutos, stopped by for a few hours to lend his support.

Autism now affects one in 68 children. Taking a family vacation with a child with autism can be stressful, and for many families, it is often an impossible dream. Anxiety, long lines, loud noises and unfamiliarity all come into play when navigating the airport. Blue Horizons for Autism provides families with the time, resources and compassion for their children to become more comfortable with this experience.

Contact Information: 

Tamara Young
Manager Corporate Communications
JetBlue Airways
Tamara.Young@jetblue.com
Desk: (718) 709-3537
Media Hotline (24/7): 718 709-3089
To Jet: Call 1-800-JETBLUE or log on to jetblue.com