Belfast International Airport Now Receives Autism NI Impact Award for Accessible Travel Services

Published on November 18, 2025

Belfast International Airport recently received the prize Autism NI Impact Award, due to the airport’s ongoing efforts to ensure accessibility to the airport’s neurodiverse travelers, making the airport site more conducive to travelers on the autism spectrum and those with other degrees of neurodivergence. This award illustrates an ongoing dedication to making air travel at the airport more accessible, easier, and less complicated for every air traveler.

This Impact Award was given to Belfast International Airport on the completion of a fully self-contained Continuing Professional Development certified training course. Autism NI in partnership with the airport designed the course for frontline staff. This training certifies frontline staff to meet the specific needs of the airport’s neurodiverse passengers, improving the overall airport experience for these travelers.

Key Initiatives at Belfast International Airport

Belfast International Airport’s collaboration with Autism NI has led to a number of changes and improvements aimed at creating a welcoming and stress-free environment for neurodiverse travelers. The development of a tailored action plan has been at the heart of these efforts, involving several new initiatives designed to promote accessibility and comfort throughout the airport.

One of the most significant advancements is the designation of autism champions among the staff. These trained individuals act as points of contact for neurodiverse passengers, providing essential guidance and support throughout the airport. In addition to this, the airport has developed a set of dedicated travel guides and video content aimed at preparing passengers for their journey. These resources cover a range of topics including airport navigation, security procedures, and available facilities, ensuring that passengers with autism or other neurodivergent conditions can plan and anticipate their travel experience with confidence.

Quiet Spaces and Sensory Considerations

As part of the airport’s ongoing efforts to enhance its services, a quiet space has been introduced, designed to provide passengers with a peaceful environment to relax and decompress before or after their flight. This quiet space is equipped with sensory features that aim to reduce anxiety, offering a respite from the often overwhelming sensory stimulation of a busy airport environment.

The airport is also working on improving sensory levels throughout the terminal, focusing on minimizing noise levels and providing adjustable lighting intensity. These changes are intended to accommodate passengers who may experience sensory sensitivities, helping them feel more at ease and comfortable during their time at the airport. With these sensory-friendly initiatives, Belfast International Airport is setting a new standard in how airports can support neurodiverse passengers.

Continued Commitment to Accessibility

Belfast International Airport’s ongoing collaboration with Autism NI demonstrates a strong commitment to ensuring that all passengers, regardless of their needs, can access a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.

In addition to the quiet spaces and sensory considerations, the airport is also working on further updates to make travel even more accessible. This includes expanding its partnership with Autism NI to continually improve its services and facilities, ensuring that all aspects of the airport experience are designed with inclusivity in mind. These improvements are part of a broader movement within the travel and tourism industry toward greater accessibility for passengers with disabilities, including those with autism and other neurodivergent conditions.

The Role of Autism NI

Christine Kearney, Director of Development at Autism NI, praised the airport for its proactive approach to enhancing accessibility for neurodiverse travelers. She emphasized the importance of such initiatives in fostering an inclusive society, stating, “We are delighted that Belfast International Airport has achieved the Impact Award. Through their training and action plan, the organisation has implemented a range of practical and meaningful changes to promote accessibility and support their autistic and neurodivergent customers. We look forward to continuing to work with Belfast International Airport to help them play their part in building an inclusive society.”

The collaboration between Belfast International Airport and Autism NI highlights the growing recognition of the need for specialized support services for neurodiverse individuals in the travel industry. By introducing tailored training, improving sensory experiences, and offering practical resources for passengers, the airport is ensuring that all travelers can enjoy a stress-free, enjoyable experience.

Conclusion: A Model for Accessible Travel

Belfast International Airport’s receipt of the Autism NI Impact Award serves as a model for other airports and travel institutions worldwide. Through its ongoing collaboration with Autism NI and commitment to enhancing services for neurodiverse passengers, the airport is helping to break down barriers and ensure that all travelers, regardless of their needs, can enjoy a safe and comfortable journey.