Photo: YLW

Kelowna children with autism got a look inside the airport to ease anxiety about flying.

The Canucks Autism Network and YLW hosted the accessibility tour for families living with autism.

Twenty-one families, totalling 78 people, came to the event on Sunday.

Airport director Sam Samaddar says he heard nothing but positive comments on the day.

“The children all have different levels of autism and different triggers, so it was an opportunity for parents to find out exactly what were those triggers and understand the entire process,” he said.

The day also was used to educate YLW staff on how to accommodate families' special needs.

Families were able to take in the entire experience, from entering the airport, waiting in line and passing through security, to boarding a plane.

“We are confident that the I CAN Fly program at YLW will open a new world of possibilities for families living with autism in the Kelowna community," said Samaddar.

“We want to reduce those barriers for people with disabilities in terms of being able to fly.”