Dec. 27, 2023

Award-Winning Dementia Friendly Air Travel Workshop Returns 

PHOENIX – Arizona’s busy travel season is well underway. However, thinking about travel or planning a future getaway can be overwhelming for an estimated seven million people in the United States experiencing dementia. With the new year, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) proudly announces the return of our award-winning Dementia Friendly Air Travel Workshop.   

 “Traveling is not the same for everyone, and for those dealing with dementia, the airport can be stressful,” said PHX’s Guest and Employee Experience Superintendent, Misty Cisneros-Contreras. “Being prepared can make all the difference and the experience less intimidating for both care providers and their loved ones. That’s why we are thrilled that our Dementia Friendly Air Travel Workshop is returning, ensuring these unique customers have a positive traveling experience.”                                                  

Last summer, the Guest and Employee Experience Team at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport hosted the first ever Dementia Friendly Air Travel Workshop to help passengers with dementia and their care providers plan and learn how to navigate a busy airport. Phoenix Sky Harbor was the first airport in the country to offer this workshop, and was recognized by Airports Council International – North America as the best Customer Experience Program for Large Airports as part of their Excellence in Airport Marketing, Communications and Customer Experience Awards. 

The Dementia Friendly Air Travel Workshop will bring together representatives from the airport, airlines, and TSA to share information and tips while answering questions from family members of those with dementia and care providers.                                           

The second Dementia Friendly Air Travel Workshop will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 10, from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Those interested in learning more or wishing to attend the workshop can email skyharbor@phoenix.gov. Include the subject line “Dementia Friendly Air Travel Workshop Registration.” Those interested in attending should register in advance as seating for the event is limited. 

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Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, America’s Friendliest Airport^®, has an annual economic impact of more than $38 billion. On an average day, approximately 1,200 aircraft and more than 130,000 passengers arrive at and depart from Sky Harbor every day. PHX Sky Harbor is funded with Airport revenue. No tax dollars are used to support the Airport.