We did the simulation at our San Antonio Airport, it went well but keeping in mind that the noise level and crowds we're at a minimal not like it normally is.

American Airlines hosts a "It's Cool to Fly" program in Chicago and other cities around the country. I have never used the program but it supposedly the experience mocks the entire airport experience - check in, security lines, boarding the plane, taxing around the runway and so on. Also, make sure you have the correct IDs for your loved one for each airport you check-in - state ID, passports, etc. I have used my mileage club membership for a quiet place for my son, but what is available depends on the airport. Of course, nothing can really prepare you for your loved ones reaction to a flight delayed for hours or canceled. Or sitting on a plane for an hour that is not moving for one reason or another. .Good Luck!!!

We contacted TSA just to avoid issues in Atlanta. We flew to Tokyo and daughter has moderate ASD.

TSA Cares: Screening Travelers on the Autism Spectrum

Are you or someone you know on the Autism Spectrum and preparing for a flight? Watch and learn what to expect during airport security screening if you or someone you know have communication, social interaction and/or sensory sensitivities.

TSA Cares is a helpline that provides travelers with disabilities, medical conditions and other special circumstances additional assistance during the security screening process. Call 72 hours prior to your travel at (Phone number can only be seen by the question and answer creators) or federal relay 711 on weekdays, 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET and weekends/holidays, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET.

For more information on travel and to print your own notification card to present to the TSA officer for accommodations during security screening, visit tsa.gov.

https://www.tsa.gov/videos/tsa-cares-screening-...

Some Airports and airlines have special autism programs where you can gonto the airport and simulate being on a plane! You could do an online search to see if they have one in your area or call the airport information line

My son was ok at the airport however on the plane he did not like to be seat belted down so i had melatonin. It was a short plane ride. He was fine when waking up on his own during landing.