Wings for All® Returns to ABE

May 28th, 2024 | Airport News

One-of-a-kind air travel experience on Saturday, June 15th

(Hanover Township, PA) – The dream of flying can become a reality!

Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE), in partnership with The Arc of Lehigh & Northampton Counties, is excited to announce the return of Wings for All® on Saturday, June 15th.

Interested participants can sign-up (space is limited) for the event by clicking the link: https://arcoflehighnorthampton.org/wings24/

Since 2015, this one-of-a-kind airport event has positively impacted more than 300 individuals across the Lehigh Valley and throughout the mid-Atlantic region.

“ABE was determined to bring back Wings for All®, as this specific event has touched the hearts of airport staff and stakeholders over the years. With the strong support of The Arc and a new regional airline partner, we’re ready for boarding,” said Thomas R. Stoudt, Executive Director, Lehigh-Northampton Airport Authority. 

A trademarked program of The Arc of The United States, Wings for All® is designed specifically for individuals with autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Wings for All^® participants experience the following:

• Check-in at the ticket counter
• Security screening by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
• Boarding a Delta Airlines aircraft
• Tour of the Sensory Room located in the Lower Concourse (beyond TSA Checkpoint)
• Depart the aircraft and enjoy refreshments during a special reception, courtesy of ABE

More than 50 volunteers will be on hand to assist the individuals and families to successfully complete the experience, with helpful tips and suggestions they can use when traveling by air in the future.

“For families who thought they would never be able to travel by air, this event provides hope. The rehearsal takes place right in their own community and makes air travel a true possibility for them,” said Karen Shoemaker, CEO of The Arc.

For the first time, Delta Airlines (Endeavor) is providing staff and an aircraft for the Wings for All^® event.

“At Delta, we believe travel is for everyone, and we’re proud to support this program that furthers our ongoing efforts to create a world that is more inclusive and accessible for all,” said Brandon Osterman, Delta’s Regional Manager – East.

Giving back to our community is deeply rooted in Delta’s beliefs and values. Thank you to Lehigh Valley International Airport and The Arc of Lehigh & Northampton Counties for giving us this opportunity to make a difference.”

From opening a Sensory Room in 2018, to offering the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard program in 2022, ABE is extremely proud to continue working with regional / global organizations to provide and expand resources for all air travelers.

For more information, visit www.flyabe.com. 

About The Arc:

The Arc of Lehigh and Northampton Counties is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing essential services and support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families. Our focus is on ensuring access to services that empower individuals with IDD to achieve their fullest potential. We prioritize quick access to resources and services for families through a simple phone call, supporting both their and their children’s success.

Through a diverse range of programs and services, The Arc strives to foster inclusion, empowerment, and support for individuals with IDD, enabling them to lead fulfilling lives. Our services include:

Offering guidance to families involved in Pennsylvania’s early intervention services, with an emphasis on enhancing their child’s strengths and growth.

Equipping young adults with the necessary resources for a successful transition from school to future endeavors.

To learn more about The Arc of Lehigh and Northampton Counties and how we can support you and your family, please visit www.arcoflehighnorthampton.org.