Cathay and Sydney Airport host aviation day for students on the autism spectrum

Fourteen students on the autism spectrum participated in an Aviation Explorers Day at Sydney Airport, providing a behind-the-scenes look at airline and airport operations. The event was part of Cathay’s ‘I Can Fly’ youth development program, held in partnership with Sydney Airport and Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia).

During the four-hour excursion, students explored various aviation elements, including sitting in a Cathay Pacific cockpit, experiencing the Aria Suite Business Class, making announcements over an aircraft PA system, and observing cargo loading in a freighter. The visit also included a tour of the airport fire station and an exploration of a fire truck.

Sydney Airport continues to work with Aspect to improve accessibility for passengers with non-visible disabilities through initiatives such as sensory maps, journey planners, and quiet rooms in the international terminal. The ‘I Can Fly’ program, which launched in 2003, has reached over 8,800 students and is expanding to other cities including Manila, Jakarta, and Kuala Lumpur.