How We Prepared My Autistic Son To Fly to Hawaii
Flying with my autistic son, Hiro, takes more preparation than throwing swimsuits into a suitcase. Long lines, unfamiliar spaces, and keeping him close when he might run are all part of my airport planning. For our April 2025 trip to Oʻahu, we flew Hawaiian Airlines from Long Beach. Here’s what helped us get to Hawaii with our snacks—and Mom’s sanity—mostly intact.
Speaking Up At Check In
At the Hawaiian Airlines ticket counter, I explained that Hiro has a disability and needs additional support. The agent added the code DPNA (acronym for Disabled Person Needing Assistance) to his boarding pass, and on our flight we boarded early with passengers needing assistance. That gave us time to get seated and organize his things before the aisle filled up. My advice: explain what your child needs and ask how the airline can help.
Ask for Help Before the Security Line
Before getting into the TSA line, I spoke directly with an officer about Hiro’s needs. They escorted us to a shorter line and were patient with him through screening. He also kept his shoes on during our experience. Waiting in a crowded line can be difficult for Hiro, so that support made a big difference before we even reached the gate.
The Challenge
For Hiro, flying involves unfamiliar spaces, crowded lines, and lots of waiting. He also needs close supervision because he can take off running. My airport plan has to account for all of that.
- Crowds and Long Lines
- Unfamiliar Transitions
- Keeping Hiro Close
What I Packed
Hiro’s backpack had his headphones, a snackle box, and a blanket. I carried extra snacks, boarding passes, and our essentials. Apparently, my unofficial airline job is snack distribution.
- Headphones
- Familiar Snacks
- Comfort Blanket
What Helped Us
Patient TSA officers and early boarding helped us get through the airport and settle into our seats. Checking our larger bags also gave me fewer things to manage while keeping up with Hiro.
- Support Through Security
- Board Early With Time to Settle In
- Fewer Bags to Manage
Photo gallery
Before You Fly: TSA Cares
TSA Cares helps travelers with disabilities arrange support through airport security. Contact them at least 72 hours before departure to request a Passenger Support Specialist. On our trip, I spoke directly with a TSA officer before joining the line, and they helped us through screening. Explain your child’s specific needs, including difficulty waiting or a tendency to run.
What Made Flying With Hiro More Manageable
For us, preparation meant keeping familiar comforts within reach and asking for support with the harder parts of the airport experience. His snacks, headphones, and blanket were ready when we needed them. Early boarding gave us time to settle in, and checking bags helped me focus on keeping him close. Every autistic child needs different support—these are the things that helped our family.