Ready, Set, Fly: YYZ & Transat Host Annual Event Supporting Autistic & Neurodivergent People

For the fourth year in a row, Toronto Pearson partnered with Autism Ontario and Air Transat, welcoming participants to the annual Ready, Set, Fly … with YYZ, an immersive airport familiarization tour that helps autistic and neurodivergent individuals become more confident with the airport experience. 

More than 200 participants took part in the event, experiencing every step of the airport journey. The tour provided hands-on experience navigating Canada’s busiest airport, helping autistic and neurodivergent individuals build confidence and feel more prepared for future travel.

“We recognize that travel can be overwhelming, and we are committed to making the journey more accessible and inclusive for everyone,” said Hamilton Vincent de Paul, Director, Terminal Experience and Groundside Services, Airport Operations at Toronto Pearson. 

“Through our partnership with Autism Ontario and Air Transat, Ready, Set Fly … with YYZ helps participants become more comfortable with the airport experience, from check-in and security screening to boarding, customs and interacting with airport employees, making future travel more predictable and less stressful.”

Marg Spoelstra, Chief Executive Officer of Autism Ontario, said the initiative has become an important annual event.

“Opportunities like Ready, Set, Fly … with YYZ provide autistic children, adults, and their families with a special opportunity to experience the airport process while relieving the stress and pressure from an actual travel day. 

“We are proud to continue our collaboration with Toronto Pearson and Air Transat, bridging the gap between our autistic community and community partners to meaningfully inform and demonstrate how to reduce barriers and make air travel more accessible.”

Andréan Gagné, Senior Director, Communications, Public Affairs and Corporate Responsibility, Transat, had this to say:

“At Air Transat, we want every family to feel welcome on board, including those for whom a first flight takes more preparation. That is why we have been part of Ready, Set, Fly from the start. By opening our aircraft and sharing our team’s expertise, we help travellers with autism and their families get ready for the trips they are planning.”