Research at AutismTrek
Most autism research focuses on children. The experiences and needs of autistic adults — particularly around travel and independence — remain largely unstudied. AutismTrek is working to change that.
We collect data on how autistic adults experience travel: what works, what doesn’t, and what the travel industry could do differently. Our research is guided by the principle of “Nothing About Us Without Us” — autistic adults are the experts on their own experiences, and our methods centre those voices.
Key Facts from Existing Research
- 87% of autistic people report finding independent travel difficult or impossible (National Autistic Society, UK)
- Autistic adults experience anxiety at five times the rate of the general population
- Peer-mediated travel training has been shown to significantly improve travel independence (Pfeiffer et al., 2024 — randomised controlled trial with p < 0.0001)
Your participation helps build the evidence that drives real change.
Participate in Our Research
Adult Autistic Traveller Questionnaire
This questionnaire asks about your experiences with air travel as an autistic adult. It covers planning, sensory challenges, airport experiences, airline support, and what changes would help most.
Take the QuestionnaireAirport Accessibility Report
Help us rate airport accessibility features. This quick report can be completed while you’re at the airport. Your feedback covers sensory rooms, quiet spaces, staff awareness, signage, and DPNA support.
Submit an Airport ReportResearch Library
AutismTrek is built on evidence. These papers and reports represent our research into autism and travel, neurodiversity representation in media, and the accessibility landscape. All are available to download and share freely.
Neurodiversity Representation in Star Trek
Comprehensive analysis of how Star Trek has represented neurodiversity across its franchise history, examining characters including Spock, Data, Seven of Nine, and Barclay. Documents the cultural connection between Star Trek and the autistic community.
Star Trek Neurodiversity Research Paper
Research paper by Erwin Willems exploring the intersection of Star Trek’s representation of neurodiversity and the lived experiences of autistic viewers, including the franchise’s role as a social skills framework.
AutismTrek Strategic White Paper
Positioning paper outlining the evidence base for AutismTrek, including population data, research findings, industry progress, and the gap in services for autistic adults.
Recent Research on Autism and Travel 2024–2025
Compilation of 15+ peer-reviewed studies on autism and travel published 2024–2025, covering airport certifications, airline initiatives, sensory room expansion, and peer-mediated travel training.
DPNA Comprehensive Research Report
In-depth research into the DPNA airline accessibility code: history, implementation, airline-specific processes, usage data, and recommendations.