Ready for Takeoff: How One Family Found Success Flying

Traveling can be scary and overwhelming. The Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD) spoke with Leslie Dorsey about how preparation and programs like the Hopkins Hangout Pass and the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport helped make travel exciting instead of stressful for her daughter, Cailyn.

Can you tell me a little bit about your experience of flying as a family?

Dorsey: "The last time we flew with Cailyn was eight years ago. We went to Florida a couple of times for spring break, but the last trip was difficult.

When we landed in Fort Myers, our plane had nowhere to disembark, so we had to sit on the tarmac for an hour. Cailyn had a very hard time. She cried and screamed the whole time. It was awful. After that, we decided to stop flying for a while and stick to drivable vacations, until this year."

What concerns did you have as a parent when you started thinking about flying again? 

Dorsey: "It felt scary and nerve-wracking. Because of our past experience, we were worried about how Cailyn would handle getting back on a plane.

But she's older now, and we felt like we could prepare her better. We planned as much as possible and looked for every accommodation that could support her. Unexpected changes can be hard for Cailyn, so we try to prepare for everything.

The challenge with flying is that so much is out of your control such as delays, long waits, and unexpected issues. We worried about getting stuck during a layover or spending hours in the airport. That uncertainty was our biggest concern."

How did you first learn about the Hopkins Hangout Pass, and what made you decide to try it?

Dorsey: "I first heard about the Hopkins Flight School program on Facebook. I signed up, but in the questionnaire, I mentioned concerns about how long it would take and how overwhelming it might be.

An employee suggested the Hopkins Hangout Pass instead. It sounded like a better fit because we could go at our own pace. We couldn't board a plane, but we could do everything else, go through security, walk around, watch planes, and observe boarding. The flexibility made it a great option for us."

What was the first practice experience like for Cailyn, going through security, hearing the airport sounds, and seeing the crowds?

Dorsey: "It went really well. We went on a Tuesday night so it would be quiet, and it was perfect.

Security wasn't crowded, and the TSA employees were incredibly kind. They noticed Cailyn's noise-canceling headphones and sunflower lanyard and immediately offered support.

They didn't make her go through the full body scanner. Instead, they let us use a simple scanner, which was much easier for her. They were so kind, it almost made me cry.

We went back for a second visit on a Sunday morning to experience a busier environment. This time, we focused on helping her adjust to crowds and waiting, which is hard for her. Overall, it went very well."

Were there any moments during the practice visits that you noticed Cailyn gaining confidence or feeling more supported?

Dorsey: "Definitely. The second time, she was so excited to go. She recognized the environment and felt more comfortable.

She loved the escalators and moving walkways. She was almost skipping through the airport because she was so excited. That was a huge shift from our experience years ago."

What stood out to you about how TSA agents or airport staff supported your family during those visits?

Dorsey: "The staff at Cleveland Hopkins were some of the nicest people. You could tell they genuinely cared. It made the whole experience feel safe and supported."

How did the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program impact your experience?

Dorsey: "The sunflower lanyard program made a huge difference. Because it was visible, we didn't have to explain anything. Staff immediately understood and responded with kindness, patience, and support.

That kind of awareness matters so much. I wish more places, like sports events and other venues, offered something similar."

When it came time for the actual trip, how did it go?

Dorsey: "Overall, it was a huge success, even though it wasn't perfect.

We had layovers both ways, which was hard. Taking two flights instead of one was difficult for Cailyn, even with preparation.

The hardest part came after landing. She did fine during the flight and while taxiing, but once the plane stopped and everyone had to wait to get off, she struggled.

Still, the trip was a big success. We were so proud of her. She seemed to enjoy flying. Since we got home, she's been talking about airplanes and the airport, and I think she's ready for another trip.

Even through there were hard moments, her overall memory is positive."

What are some other areas where similar programs could be helpful for families and people with sensory sensitivities?

Dorsey: "Places like sporting events or large venues. For Cailyn, the first visit is always the hardest. The second time is much easier because it feels familiar.

If we can't visit ahead of time, I try to show her pictures or videos, so she knows what to expect.

I also love that more places now offer sensory-friendly or quiet rooms. Those are really helpful."

What advice would you give to other families of children who are nervous about flying?

Dorsey: "Start by reaching out to other parents. I'm on the board for Connecting for Kids, and I asked for advice in a parent Facebook group. That helped a lot. I also reached out to parents at Cailyn's school, and they shared great suggestions.

At home, we also made a visual countdown calendar with drawings of airplanes and our destination to help her prepare. At the airport, we brought plenty of snacks, toys, her iPad, and headphones.

We did everything we could to prepare, and it paid off."

To learn more about programs like the Hopkins Hangout Pass and Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program at the Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, visit the airports website.