Emirates,has launched its “Travel Rehearsal” programme in the UK, hosting its first session in the country at London Stansted Airport (STN).

The Travel Rehearsal programme allows people with accessible travel requirements to experience a guided simulation of the complete air travel journey, familiarising them with airport procedures and onboard environments ahead of time – helping reduce anxiety and build confidence before an actual flight.

In partnership with Hertfordshire-based special needs school, St Elizabeth’s Centre, several students on the autism spectrum and their families experienced the travel journey with Emirates at Stansted, from check in to the departure gate.

Supported by airport and airline staff, the students and their families walked through check-in, security and the departure lounge. They also experienced immigration, luggage pick-up and meet and greet.

As part of Emirates’ “Accessible Travel for All” approach, the Travel Rehearsal programme aims to make air travel more predictable and comfortable for individuals on the autism spectrum.

Jabr Al-Azeeby, Emirates Divisional Vice President in the UK, said: “As the world’s first Autism Certified Airline, we are proud to bring our travel rehearsal programme to the UK, starting with the first session here in London. This global programme aims to break down some of the invisible barriers that people with neurodivergence may face when travelling, giving them greater confidence and helping open the world up for more people to explore. I’d like to thank the Emirates Airport Services team at Stansted for their role in bringing this initiative to life, in collaboration with our partners, to help make air travel more inclusive.” 

Lisa Tooley, Headteacher at St Elizabeth’s Centre, added: “Airports can be overwhelming and stressful environments for people with disabilities, accessibility requirements, and their families. Experiences like this are incredibly important for those who may otherwise feel unable to travel. We’re very grateful to Emirates and Stansted Airport for hosting this valuable and empowering experience.”

Stephanie Putt, London Stansted Airport Accessibility Manager, commented: “It’s been fantastic working with Emirates on this excellent initiative, and we’re so grateful to St Elizabeth’s school for their wonderful support. This project helps the airport remove barriers to travel not only for Emirates customers, but anyone who relies on assisted travel. By learning from this trial in a live airport setting, we can continue to strengthen accessibility and make the journey smoother and more welcoming for all passengers.”

Emirates became the world’s first Autism-Certified Airline after more than 35,000 cabin crew and ground staff completed specialised autism awareness training.

The programme equips employees with in-depth knowledge of the autism spectrum, common misconceptions, challenges faced during travel, and personalised support strategies tailored to individual passenger needs.

Since April 2025, Emirates’ Airport Services teams have come together to arrange 40 of these travel rehearsals across airports like Accra, Athens, Bali, Barcelona, Bologna, Brussels, Christchurch, Da Nang, Delhi, Dubai, Dublin, Durban, Düsseldorf, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Guangzhou, Harare, Hong Kong, Istanbul, London, Madrid, Mauritius, Milan, Newcastle, Nice, Orlando, Oslo, Paris, Peshawar, Port Luis, Rome, Stansted, Stockholm, Sydney, Venice, Vienna, and Warsaw. -TradeArabia News Service