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Autism advocates have welcomed a new policy allowing autistic travellers to wear noise-cancelling headphones through airport security.
The policy update, announced by the Department of Home Affairs, will mean passengers who require the headphones as a disability aid can wear them through body scanners, with the headphones able to be screened separately if needed.
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“Where possible, screening officers will allow people with hidden disabilities to keep their support items with them while being screened,” the Department says on its TravelSecure website.
“While you are unable to choose your method of screening, we suggest carrying evidence, such as a letter from your legal medical practitioner, if there are screening methods that may not be suitable.
“This will assist the screening officer to choose an appropriate method of screening for your circumstances.”
According to Dr Tom Tutton, head of Aspect Autism Friendly, the change will “reduce stress and sensory overload” for autistic travellers.
“This is a small procedural change, but it has a huge impact on the travel experience for autistic people. We are working with our airport partners to ensure this messaging gets to all security staff,” he said.
“We know it will take time for every staff member in every airport to be fully aware of the new guidance, which is why we encourage travellers to self-advocate calmly and prepare ahead.
“We’re committed to continuing our work alongside airports to ensure these changes are implemented consistently and with care.”
As airports are loud and unpredictable, some autistic people may require headphones to avoid sensory issues, which can cause distress and make them reluctant to travel.
Emma Beardsley, an autistic traveller, said the ability to wear the headphones through security would make the process easier.
“I used to panic every time they made me take my headphones off at security. The noise and the unpredictability can be overwhelming,” she said.
“Now I feel like I can travel more confidently and safely. It’s a big relief.”
Aspect says it provides airports with “customised training for airport staff, autism friendly audits that support airports to build predictability before travelling (with visual stories and sensory maps) and a range of airport-based supports and accommodations”.
