Wings for Autism takes flight in Boise

BOISE, Idaho (KBOI) — 59 families traveled to the Boise Airport on Saturday for an event aimed at taking the scare out of the air.

Wings for Autism is a program designed to give families with special needs the opportunity to become familiar with airline travel.

Anyone who has ever flown knows how stressful the process can be, but for people with special needs the anxiety is heightened.

The event acts as a "test run", requiring participants to clear security, board the plane, fasten their seat belts, and prepare for take-off.

They don't actually fly anywhere but the experience is still invaluable.

Participants depart that much more ready for when a day comes that they actually need to fly somewhere.

The event was made possible through a partnership between American Airlines, the Arc of Idaho, and Autism Society Treasure Valley.

Event organizers say they plan to bring Wings for Autism to the Boise Airport again so that even more families can get the experience.