June 9, 2023

PHOENIX – The summer travel season is in full swing, and many are already making travel plans for the busy end of the year holiday season. However, for an estimated seven million people in the United States experiencing dementia* thinking about travel or planning a future getaway can be overwhelming.

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport strives to provide the best customer experience to all passengers that pass through the terminals. America's Friendliest Airport® adopted a dementia-friendly initiative in 2021 that added special programing for those traveling with dementia.

In addition, the Customer Service team at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport will be hosting a two-hour workshop in July to help passengers with dementia and their care providers plan and learn how to navigate a busy airport.

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.

“Feeling overwhelmed and not knowing the resources available to help from the curb, through the airport and to the reserved seat on the plane, can make it easy to see how many see traveling as a stressful and scary situation,” said PHX’s Superintendent of Customer Service, Misty Cisneros-Contreras. “Being prepared can make the experience less intimidating for both care providers and their loved ones. We are excited that our Dementia Friendly Air Travel Workshop adds another layer to the programming already offered to ensure these unique customers have a positive traveling experience.”

The Dementia Friendly Air Travel Workshop will be held on Wednesday, July 12 from 10 a.m. to 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. Seating 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. Each day, approximately 1,200 aircraft and more than 125,000 passengers arrive and depart from Phoenix Sky Harbor. Phoenix Sky Harbor is funded with airport revenue. No tax dollars are used to support the airport.

*2023 Alzheimer’s Association Annual Report