Domodedovo International Airport in Moscow organized a special aviation event for passengers with autism spectrum disorders, sensory sensitivity, and other neuro-different travelers. The program was created to help participants understand airport procedures and feel more comfortable with air travel.
The event included a complete airport experience, from check-in procedures to visiting an aircraft. Thirteen young students from the Guryevsky Center for Supported Living in Moscow joined the program. The students are interested in aviation and had the opportunity to experience what a real flight journey looks like.
During the event, the participants followed many steps that passengers normally complete before a flight. They visited the airport medical center, received a flight approval check, learned about the passenger registration system, collected boarding passes, and completed security procedures. The activities were organized in a calm and friendly environment to reduce stress and make the experience easier.
Exploring Airport Operations and Aircraft
One of the most interesting parts of the program was a visit to the airport’s security dog service. A professional dog handler and a service dog showed how airport dogs search for prohibited items in luggage. The students watched the demonstration, asked questions, and took photos with the specially trained dog.
Airport Security Dogs
A trained dog handler demonstrated how airport dogs help security teams by searching luggage and identifying prohibited substances.
Learning Through Experience
The students interacted with airport employees, asked questions, and learned more about daily airport operations.
The highlight of the day was a tour of an Airbus A380 aircraft. The participants visited the two levels of the large passenger plane and explored different areas, including first-class cabins. They also met pilots and cabin crew members. The students were impressed by the size of the aircraft and the friendly support from airline employees.
Airbus A380 Aircraft Tour
The participants explored the world’s largest passenger aircraft, visited both decks, saw different cabin areas, and met members of the flight and cabin crew.
Support for Passengers with Special Needs
The event was part of a wider effort to make air travel more accessible for all passengers. In 2025, the partner airline became the first airline in the world to receive certification for supporting passengers with autism spectrum disorders. Around 30,000 employees received special training to better understand the needs of passengers with autism and sensory sensitivity.
Staff Training
Around 30,000 airline employees received special training to understand autism and support passengers with sensory sensitivity.
Accessible Facilities
Domodedovo Airport provides ramps, adapted entrances, tactile signs, and wheelchair services for passengers who need additional support.
Quiet Waiting Area
Terminal T2 includes a special waiting area with comfortable seats and relaxation spaces for passengers who need a calmer environment.
Creating a More Comfortable Travel Experience
Domodedovo Airport continues to improve its services to help passengers with special needs feel safer and more comfortable during their journey.
Creating Inclusive Airports
Domodedovo International Airport aims to become a more inclusive and accessible place for all travelers. Events like Special Passengers Day help passengers become familiar with airport procedures before their first real flight.
The program allows participants to experience airport services in a safe environment and understand how travel works step by step. These experiences can help reduce uncertainty and create more confidence for future journeys.
A More Accessible Future
Airports are developing new solutions to make air travel easier and more comfortable for every passenger.
Supporting Independent Living
The Guryevsky Center for Supported Living helps young people with mental disabilities develop independence, learn new skills, and become more active members of society. The special test flight was an important step for the students and showed how airports can create a welcoming environment for everyone.
