Pittsburgh International Airport recently opened a suite of “sensory rooms” inside its airside terminal to help travelers on the autism spectrum decompress from the stress of flying. It’s one of a handful of airports internationally that’s made changes to be more accommodating to people with special needs.
The 1,500-square-foot space in Pittsburgh is quiet, muting the hustle and bustle from the terminal. Designed with input from people who have autism, it features soft furniture and whimsical lighting features, including colorful bubble towers, and multiple soundproof rooms. There’s also a room designed to replicate an airplane cabin, complete with airplane seats, trays, windows and overhead compartments, so kids and adults can get used to the feeling of sitting on a plane.
Traveling through an airport can be an anxiety-inducing experience for anyone, but for people on the autism spectrum, the sensory bombardment can make the experience even more intense.
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