October 19, 2026
Autistic Islanders and Families Take Flight Over Prince Edward Island in Partnership Between Air Canada, Autism Society of PEI, and YYG
CHARLOTTETOWN, PEI – On Saturday, October 17, 2026, autistic Islanders and their families took to the skies above Prince Edward Island as part of Autism Aviators, hosted by the Charlottetown Airport Authority (CAA), Air Canada, the Air Canada Foundation, and Autism Society of PEI. Participants boarded an Air Canada aircraft at Charlottetown Alexander B. Campbell Airport (YYG) for a 45-minute loop flight over the Island.
For many families living with autism, the sensory demands of air travel, such as crowded terminals, unpredictable sounds, and the stress of the unknown, can make flying feel out of reach. Autism Aviators is designed to give families the chance to experience every part of the journey in a supported setting, before they ever need to take a real trip.
“It is such a privilege to partner with Autism Society of PEI and YYG to make air travel more accessible for customers with autism,” said Kerianne Wilson, Director of Customer Accessibility, Air Canada. “By welcoming families to go through a practice travel experience, from check-in to security to boarding, and then ending with a short flight, the goal is to help ease stress and worry about air travel.”
“Autism Society of Prince Edward Island is thrilled to be a partner in hosting an Autism Aviators event,” said Nathalie Walsh-Annand, Executive Director, Autism Society of PEI. “Increasing comfort with air travel can open more choices and opportunities for autistic Islanders and their families. We are incredibly grateful to all the partners who have come together to make this meaningful experience available.”
“We are proud to open our doors to these incredible families and to be part of an experience that makes air travel accessible to autistic Islanders. At YYG, inclusive air travel for all Islanders is something we are deeply committed to,” said Maria VanKampen, Manager of Marketing and Passenger Experience, Charlottetown Airport Authority.
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About the Airport Authority
Charlottetown Airport Authority Inc. assumed operational and financial responsibility for the Charlottetown Airport on March 1, 1999. The Board of Directors now oversee the affairs of the airport with a mission to provide a convenient, modern, and sustainable airport that connects people and drives economic growth in Prince Edward Island. In 2025, 391,086 passengers travelled through the airport, generating more than $366 million in total economic impact in Prince Edward Island.
About the Air Canada Foundation
Through its programs or other initiatives, the Air Canada Foundation provides financial or fundraising support to Canadian-registered charities focused on improving children’s health and well-being.
About the Autism Society of PEI
The Autism Society of PEI strives to enhance the lives of Autistic people in PEI and their families by providing trusted navigation, advocacy, education, and connection, wherever they are on their journey.
Contact:
Maria VanKampen – Manager, Marketing & Passenger Experience
Charlottetown Airport Authority Inc.