Airports are often a whirlwind of activity—crowds rushing with suitcases, constant announcements, and an overwhelming stream of information. While stressful for many, the sensory overload can be particularly challenging for neurodiverse travelers, especially those with autism.
Recognizing this need, a growing number of airports worldwide are introducing sensory rooms—calm, dedicated spaces designed to help passengers decompress from the chaos of air travel.
A Global Trend Towards Inclusive Travel
From the United States to Europe, major airports are embracing this initiative.
- Pittsburgh International Airport introduced Presley’s Place, a quiet, soothing space for families.
- San Francisco International Airport opened a sensory room designed specifically for neurodiverse travelers, complete with a mock aircraft interior to help passengers familiarize themselves with the flight experience.
- Seattle-Tacoma International Airport created a sensory-friendly space with dimmable lighting, a rocking chair, and a ceiling designed to resemble a starry night sky, offering a sanctuary for those who feel overstimulated.
- Dublin Airport has gone a step further, building two sensory rooms where travelers can escape the bustling terminal environment. These rooms are free to use, with 60-minute sessions available via a booking system.
While these innovations are growing in number, sensory rooms remain a rare feature in airports worldwide. Until they become more widespread, memorial and prayer rooms—which are open to travelers of all faiths—may serve as alternative spaces for those seeking quiet moments of peace.
Additionally, many airports support passengers with hidden disabilities through the Sunflower Lanyard initiative. Wearing this lanyard discreetly signals to airport staff that the traveler may require extra time, assistance, or accommodations.
Malaysia’s Efforts: The Butterfly Effect at KLIA
Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) has joined this movement with its Butterfly Effect initiative, aimed at assisting travelers with hidden disabilities, including autism.
According to KLIA’s official website, the Butterfly Effect symbolizes how small changes can lead to a significant positive impact over time. The initiative includes:
- The Calm Room (Terminal 1): A vibrant, well-lit space with interactive sensory activity stations.
- Sensory Walls (Both Terminals): Engaging, interactive touch panels designed to provide tactile, visual, and auditory stimulation to help neurodiverse individuals feel at ease.
Passengers wishing to access these facilities must pre-register online and visit the Airport Care InfoCentre (Terminal 1, Level 5) or Airport Information Counter (Terminal 2, Level 3) to collect a Butterfly Kit. This kit includes a special lanyard that alerts airport staff to the traveler’s needs and provides access to priority lanes at security, immigration, and customs checkpoints.
With KLIA and other international airports leading the way, these initiatives mark a meaningful step towards making air travel more inclusive and accommodating for all passengers.
