How TSA Cares Makes Air Travel Easier for Families with Autism

Airports can be an overwhelming experience for people with Autism. The loud noises, crowded spaces, and unfamiliar routines may cause anxiety and stress. Thankfully, the TSA Cares program is designed to assist families, providing personalized support to ensure a smoother and less stressful airport experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this fantastic resource and make your next trip more enjoyable.

What Is TSA Cares?

TSA Cares is a free service that offers additional assistance to travelers with disabilities, medical conditions, or special circumstances. This includes travelers with Autism who may require extra support during the security screening process. The program provides:

• Personalized guidance and assistance.

• Accommodations to reduce sensory overload.

• Staff trained to support individuals with specific needs.

To access this service, families are encouraged to call the TSA Cares helpline at (855) 787-2227 or Federal Relay 711 at least 72 hours prior to travel.

Steps to Access TSA Cares Support

1. Plan Ahead

Preparation is key. Before your trip, familiarize yourself with the TSA’s security screening process. Watching TSA’s informational videos can help your child understand what to expect. These videos can be a great teaching tool, making the unfamiliar process less intimidating. The videos can be watched here.

2. Contact TSA Cares

Call the TSA Cares helpline at (855) 787-2227 at least three days before your flight. When you call, be prepared to provide specific details to ensure the best possible support. Share your:

• Travel dates and times: Clearly state when you will be traveling, including the departure and return dates.

• Details about your departing and arriving airports: Mention the names of the airports and terminals if known.

• Your child’s specific needs: Explain any sensory sensitivities, communication challenges, or other accommodations that might help your child feel more comfortable.

During the call, take note of any instructions provided by the TSA team and ask any questions you might have about the process. The TSA team will use this information to coordinate with airport staff, ensuring that the necessary accommodations are ready when you arrive. You can also request a follow-up email for confirmation and additional details.

3. Print a Notification Card

You can print a TSA notification card directly from the TSA website. This card is a valuable tool that allows you to discreetly communicate your child’s needs to TSA officers without having to provide lengthy verbal explanations. To access the card, visit the TSA Notification Card page, download the template, and fill out the necessary information.

Make sure to keep the card in an easily accessible place, such as a purse, backpack, or travel document folder. When you approach the security checkpoint, hand the card to the TSA officer, who will then review the information and proceed with the appropriate accommodations. Having this card ready can streamline the process and ensure your child receives the support they need.

4. Arrive Early

On the day of your flight, arrive at the airport early to allow ample time for the additional assistance TSA Cares provides. Once you’ve checked in, a TSA representative will meet you at the security checkpoint to guide your family through the process.

What to Expect at the Airport

Meeting the TSA Representative

Upon arrival at the security checkpoint, a TSA representative will be ready to assist you. They will:

• Greet and welcome your family.

• Provide an overview of what to expect during the security screening process.

• Guide your family to a designated area, which may be quieter and less crowded, to help reduce sensory overload for your child.

Tailored Screening Process

The TSA staff is trained to provide a personalized screening experience for families with children with Autism. During the process, they will:

• Explain each step of the screening in clear, simple terms, ensuring that your child understands what is happening.

• Allow additional time for your child to process each step without feeling rushed.

• Use non-invasive screening techniques when possible to minimize discomfort or anxiety.

• Adjust or bypass certain steps of the process, such as removing shoes or jackets, if these actions are distressing and within TSA guidelines.

Sensory and Communication Accommodations

Airports can be noisy and overwhelming, but TSA Cares strives to create a more comfortable environment for your child. If needed:

• The TSA staff can provide breaks during the screening process to help your child regroup.

• Officers may use visual aids, gestures, or other nonverbal methods to communicate if verbal instructions are challenging.

• Families may be directed to a quieter screening lane or a private screening room to reduce sensory stimulation.

Post-Screening Support

Once the screening is complete, the TSA representative can assist you in navigating the rest of the airport if needed. This includes:

• Directing your family to the boarding gate.

• Offering additional support or answering questions about the next steps in the travel process.

Final Thoughts

TSA Cares program provides invaluable support to make the security experience smoother and less stressful. By planning ahead, using the program’s resources, and preparing your child for the journey, you can navigate the airport with greater confidence.

For personalized assistance with planning your next trip, including navigating the TSA Cares program, I’m here to help! Contact me today for a free quote and let me take the stress out of your travel planning. Together, we can create a seamless and enjoyable travel experience for your family!