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31 июля 2026 15:25
Special Passengers Day at Domodedovo
Domodedovo International Airport, together with the largest airline in the Middle East, organized a unique test flight with full immersion in the “air travel” mode for passengers with autism spectrum disorders and sensory sensitivity, as well as neuro-different travelers.
The event was attended by 13 young students from the Guryevsky Center for Supported Living in Moscow, who are passionate about aviation. For the children, a full cycle of an air travel was recreated – from pre-flight procedures to aircraft inspection and meeting with the crew of one of the largest airliners in the world – a two-storey Airbus A380.
The program was carefully designed to take into account the participants' health conditions, allowing them to experience the work of one of the country's largest airports in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The young travelers underwent a medical examination for flight personnel at the airport's medical center and were "approved for flight," then they familiarized themselves with the airport's passenger registration system, received boarding passes, and completed all necessary pre-flight formalities related to aviation security.
The participants were particularly interested in the airport's dog-handling service. A dog handler and a service dog demonstrated their skills in searching for prohibited substances in hand luggage and baggage. The students were able to ask questions and take photos with the four-legged airport employee.
The highlight of the program was a tour of the two-deck Airbus A380 passenger liner. The employees of the Moscow office of the Domodedovo’s partner airline showed the students of Guryevskoye both decks of the aircraft, including the first-class cabins. The young people had the opportunity to interact with the flight and cabin crews of the largest aircraft in the world. The feedback from the participants was particularly valuable, as they were impressed not only by the size of the aircraft, but also by the friendly attitude of the crews.
In 2025, the partner airline became the first airline in the world to be certified for passengers with autism spectrum disorders. 30,000 airline employees underwent special training to understand the behavior of passengers with autism and sensory sensitivity. The goal of the certification was to educate airline employees about all types of autism, misconceptions, and fears faced by special passengers.
Domodedovo International Airport has once again demonstrated that it is an inclusive space, and its employees are always ready to help passengers with sensory sensitivities adapt to the new experience of air travel and create a positive experience of interaction with the transport infrastructure. Domodedovo International Airport is a barrier-free environment, with ramps, adapted entrances, and tactile signage. Wheelchairs are provided for passengers who are unable to move independently.
In the international area of Terminal T2, there is a separate comfortable waiting room for passengers who require special attention, with comfortable chairs, special showers, and relaxation areas. Domodedovo's parking facilities provide free parking spaces for such passengers and their accompanying persons.
The Guryevsky Center for Supported Living in Moscow helps young people with mental disabilities adapt to independent living, acquire professions, and integrate into society. The test flight to Domodedovo was another important step towards independent living for them.
Contacts of Domodedovo Press Office:
Tel.: +7 (903) 750 34 04
Tel.: +7 (495) 795 34 27
press@dme.ru
www.dme.ru
