Passing through airport security with autism
- By
- Aparna Patel
- |
- 12 May, 2025
- |
105👍
I understand that logic doesn't always help in times of stress, but the first thing I want to assure you is that people are not going to run off with your things. This is something we all worry about but that essentially never happens. The folks who manage the checkpoint are monitoring and your things are not out there without you for more than a few seconds.
Second, you mention that your plush helps you. Could you procure a small square of plush fabric? You could keep this in your pocket - there's no requirement that your pockets be empty, merely that they be empty of metal. Fabric alone will not set off any detectors and you can put your hands in your pocket and calm yourself if you have to wait a moment before you go through the scanner.
Third, forget the people behind you. The pressure you feel is not really from them. You owe them no obligation. They are waiting, they have their own issues, but they will never say "great trip today, the guy in front of me in the security line was so quick!" What's more, if such a person existed, they would say that about you because you're not pulling things out of 4 different bags and pockets, having to go through the scanner twice because you left your keys in your pockets, and so on. You're already faster than most of the people in the line. You have no obligation to set some sort of land speed record by not hesitating, not waiting with your stuff (I do that), or just walking at the pace you prefer.
Fourth, reward yourself for completing this worst part of the journey. Whether it's an expensive coffee, a magazine, a bar of chocolate -- buy something fun and frivolous right after the security check. Something you wouldn't normally get yourself. The day may come when you're planning a trip and find yourself looking forward to that dark-chocolate-and-orange bar waiting for you on the other side of security.
48👍
When planning a journey, it's worth considering if flying is truly necessary. As an individual with Asperger's, I personally choose to avoid flights for my own reasons.
For travel between The Netherlands and the United Kingdom, flying is completely unnecessary. There are three ferry links from The Netherlands to England, each providing a peaceful and scenic journey. The terminals were designed for high passenger traffic, but nowadays, most travelers drive onto the ferry. During my experiences on overnight ferries in Europe, the passenger terminals were so deserted that I questioned whether I was in the right place. The ferry cabins offer a private and tranquil space, equipped with amenities such as a TV and slow wifi.
For journeys within the same continent, I prefer traveling by train whenever possible. Even multi-day train trips are feasible, and for those with the means, fully private compartments can be booked on many sleeper trains. For valuable information and resources on train travel, I recommend visiting The Man in Seat61.
It's important to note that some trains may have airline-style luggage checks. For example, the Eurostar requires luggage to be scanned, and similar practices may be in place on certain Spanish trains.
In cases where air travel is nearly unavoidable (such as travel to Australia, South America, or sub-Saharan Africa) or significantly time-consuming and costly from Europe (e.g., east-Asia or North America), my advice aligns with Kate's answer. Frequent travel may make the process easier to navigate.
Edit: I was reminded of the Autipas by StrongBad's answer. It's a special card designed for individuals to show airport personnel, originally inspired by an incident involving an individual with Asperger's at Schiphol Airport. While I personally wouldn't opt for such a card, it may be beneficial for others.
25👍
In the US, the TSA has a notification card available for travelers with disabilities. The card can be used to communicate with TSA officers about any specific concerns or needs during the screening process.
You or your traveling companion may consult the TSA officer about the best way to relieve any concerns during the screening process.
Similarly, in the UK, disabled travelers have rights at the airport which are outlined on https://www.gov.uk/airport-rights. According to Citizens Advice, it is recommended to contact customer services at the airport for assistance with moving through the airport from check-in, through security, to the departure gate, and this assistance should be provided free of charge.
Contact customer services at the airport if you need help to move through the airport from check-in, through security to the departure gate. You shouldn't be charged for this assistance.
In conclusion, it is important to communicate any specific needs or concerns with airport security and to request reasonable accommodations as needed.