DPNA: The Airline Accessibility Code Most Travellers Don’t Know About
DPNA stands for “Disabled Passenger with Intellectual or Developmental Disability Needing Assistance.” It is an official IATA code that airlines use in their booking systems to flag that a passenger needs additional support. It has been available since 2008, is recognised by all IATA member airlines worldwide, and is free to request — yet fewer than 0.002% of flight bookings include it.
Most autistic adults have never heard of it.
What DPNA Gets You
When a DPNA code is on your booking, airline and airport staff are alerted before you arrive. Depending on the airline and airport, this can include:
- Priority boarding so you can settle in before the cabin fills
- Seating assistance — staff may help arrange a suitable seat (aisle, window, or away from high-traffic areas)
- Staff awareness — cabin crew and gate agents are briefed that a passenger on the flight may need additional patience or support
- Airport escort through security, immigration, and boarding if needed
- In-flight flexibility — priority meal service, adapted safety briefings, extra patience from crew
- Access to sensory rooms or quiet spaces at airports that offer them
The specific support varies between airlines and airports. Some are excellent; others are still developing their processes.
Who Can Request It
Anyone with a developmental or intellectual disability, including autism, can request a DPNA code. You do not need to provide a formal diagnosis to most airlines — a clear description of the support you need is typically sufficient.
How to Request DPNA
There are three ways to add a DPNA code to your booking:
At the Time of Booking
Tell your travel agent, or use the “special assistance” or “accessibility needs” section of the airline’s online booking form. Specify that you need DPNA-level support and describe your particular needs (e.g., “autistic adult — sensitive to noise and crowds, may need extra time for transitions”).
After Booking, Online
Most airlines allow you to add special assistance to an existing booking through their website or app. Look for “Manage Booking” → “Special Assistance” or “Accessibility.”
By Phone
Call the airline’s accessibility desk directly. This is often the most reliable method, as you can confirm exactly what support will be provided. Call at least 72 hours before departure.
Whichever method you use, follow up 72 hours before your flight to confirm the code is on your booking and that your specific needs are noted.
DPNA and the Sunflower Lanyard — What’s the Difference?
These are complementary, not the same thing.
DPNA is an official code in the airline’s booking system. It triggers pre-departure briefings and specific support protocols. It is arranged before you travel.
The Sunflower lanyard is a visible signal you wear at the airport that tells trained staff you may need extra help. It is voluntary and immediate — you don’t need to arrange it in advance.
Using both together provides the strongest support: DPNA ensures the airline’s systems are prepared for you, while the Sunflower lanyard helps airport staff recognise your needs on the day.
Airline Accessibility Contacts
When requesting DPNA, contacting the airline directly is the most effective approach. Look for “Accessibility” or “Special Assistance” on your airline’s website, or ask for the accessibility desk when you call.
Why This Matters
DPNA is an existing, globally recognised system that could make air travel significantly more manageable for autistic adults. The main barrier is not availability — it’s awareness. By requesting DPNA for your flights, you both access support you’re entitled to and help demonstrate demand that drives airlines to improve their training and processes.
AutismTrek is not affiliated with IATA or any airline. Information on this page is based on publicly available IATA guidelines and airline accessibility policies as of February 2026. Specific support varies by airline and airport. We recommend confirming available assistance directly with your airline.