Award-Winning Dementia Friendly Air Travel Workshop Enters Fourth Year

PHOENIX – Traveling by air can be very hectic even for seasoned fliers, but it can be overwhelming for someone experiencing dementia.

An estimated 7 million people in the United States experience dementia, and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport has proudly offered the Dementia Friendly Air Travel Workshop to passengers and caregivers of people with dementia, to give them the tools and knowledge to make air travel manageable and a positive experience.

“The airport can be a stressful place for those dealing with dementia,” said Guest and Employee Experience Superintendent Misty Cisneros-Contreras of Phoenix Sky Harbor. “We are excited to continue offering our Dementia Friendly Air Travel Workshop to help give customers and their loved ones a positive flying experience.”

The Dementia Friendly Air Travel Workshop brings together representatives from the airport, airlines, and the Transportation Security Administration to share information and tips, while answering questions from family members and care providers about traveling with dementia.

The workshop will be held from 10 a.m. to noon Wednesday, Jan. 21. 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. The workshop also is available for those who would like to attend virtually. 

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 its Excellence in Airport Marketing, Communications and Customer Experience Awards in 2023.

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, America’s Friendliest Airport^®, has an annual economic impact of more than $44 billion. On an average day, approximately 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.