New YVR Autism Access Sticker Gives Expedited Airport Processing

YVR and Canucks Autism Network develop new travel tool for individuals living with autism

RICHMOND, BC, Nov. 14, 2016 /CNW/ - Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is the first airport in Canada to implement a program that provides an expedited airport process for families and individuals living with autism. The new YVR Autism Access Sticker was developed as part of the I CAN Fly program, a collaboration between YVR and the Canucks Autism Network (CAN) that provides air travel resources to support individuals and families living with autism.

"One of our top priorities is providing an accessible airport for everyone, and it is through collaboration with partners like the Canucks Autism Network that we are able to identify new opportunities to make our airport as accessible as possible," said Craig Richmond, President & CEO, Vancouver Airport Authority. "The launch of the YVR Autism Access Sticker brings us another step towards to our goal of removing barriers to air travel and creating a positive airport experience for everyone."

The YVR Autism Access Sticker is a self-identification tool for individuals living with autism that can be placed on boarding passes. The sticker ensures an expedited airport process through screening and customs, and better communicates the specific needs of passengers to airport employees.

"We are thrilled to be a part of this important initiative that will help families living with autism navigate the often overwhelming airport experience," said Katy Harandi, President & CEO, Canucks Autism Network. "Our partnership with Vancouver International Airport allows families to become familiarized and desensitized to the whole travel process. The I CAN Fly program has opened up a world of possibilities for families living with autism and we are so grateful to YVR for making it happen."

The launch of the YVR Autism Access Sticker coincides with the third annual YVR Accessibility Tour. The tour, which is hosted by YVR in partnership with Canucks Autism Network, Air Transat and Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) provides over one hundred individuals and families living with autism the opportunity to experience the air travel process step-by-step to help decrease anxiety while travelling and experience flying in a positive way.

The partnership with the Canucks Autism Network is part of YVR's community investment program, that in 2016 will contribute $1 million back into the community through donations and sponsorships in three focus areas; Accessibility, Community and Environment.  

About Vancouver Airport Authority

Vancouver Airport Authority is a community-based, not-for-profit organization that manages Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Canada's second busiest airport, YVR served more than 20.3 million passengers in 2015. Fifty-four airlines serve YVR, connecting people and businesses to more than 120 non-stop destinations worldwide. In 2016, YVR received CAPA Centre for Aviation's prestigious Airport of the Year Award and was voted Best Airport in North America for the seventh consecutive year in the Skytrax World Airport Awards. Vancouver Airport Authority is a dedicated community partner and in 2015 donated more than $900,000 to local organizations. We are committed to creating an airport that British Columbia can be proud of: a premier global gateway, local economic generator and community contributor. For more information, please visit www.yvr.ca.

SOURCE Vancouver Airport Authority

YVR Media Relations, 604.880.9815, [email protected], Twitter: @yvrairport