July 12, 2024

Award-Winning Dementia Friendly Air Travel Workshop Returns

PHOENIX – With summer upon us, Arizonans might be looking to escape the summer heat. However, an airport is not an easy experience for everyone and can be overwhelming for an estimated seven million people in the United States experiencing dementia. To help alleviate that stress, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is thrilled to offer our award-winning Dementia Friendly Air Travel Workshop for the third time.

The Guest and Employee Experience Team at Phoenix Sky Harbor recognizes the importance of the Dementia Friendly Air Travel Workshop, as it continues to help passengers with dementia and their care providers plan and learn how to navigate a busy airport.

“We understand that navigating an airport is not the same experience for all, and when you add in the variable of dementia, it can be even more challenging.” said PHX’s Guest and Employee Experience Superintendent, Misty Cisneros-Contreras. “This workshop has proven to provide a valuable service to our community and an opportunity for our passengers dealing with dementia to be prepared and ready to fly next time they visit Phoenix Sky Harbor.” 

The Dementia Friendly Air Travel Workshop is a unique opportunity that puts representatives from the airport and TSA all in one room to share information and tips while answering questions from family members of those with dementia and care providers.

The Dementia Friendly Air Travel Workshop will be held on Wednesday, July 17, from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Those interested in learning more or wishing to attend the workshop can email skyharbor@phoenix.gov. Include in the subject line “Dementia Friendly Air Travel Workshop Registration.” Those interested in attending should register in advance as seating for the event is limited.

Phoenix Sky Harbor was the first airport in the country to offer this type of 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 in 2023.

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Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, America’s Friendliest Airport^®, has an annual economic impact of more than $44 billion. On an average day, more than 1,000 aircraft and more than 130,000 passengers arrive at and depart from Phoenix Sky Harbor every day. PHX Sky Harbor is funded with airport revenue. No tax dollars are used to support the airport.