San Francisco International Airport has unveiled a new sensory room aimed at providing neurodivergent travelers a sense of calm amidst the stresses of flying.
Airports often buzz with activity: lengthy queues, loud announcements, and a constant flow of passengers hurrying to reach their gates.
While many manage the chaos, for 29-year-old Nico Ambata, it has always felt overwhelming.
“It took my wife three years of convincing me to actually go on vacation,” he shared.
Ambata struggles with severe ADHD, and for him, the unpredictability of air travel is not just stressful—it’s debilitating.
“I like to say I have a million channels running in my mind simultaneously,” he explained.
This time, however, Ambata and his wife Jhasmine are taking their initial steps to tackle the turmoil of travel. They’ve boarded a plane at San Francisco International Airport—or at least it feels that way.
Featuring two rows of seats, overhead storage, and even functional lights, the cabin simulator serves as the focal point of SFO’s new sensory room, crafted for neurodivergent travelers seeking to alleviate their anxiety about flying.
Christopher Birch, the Guest Experience Director at SFO, mentioned that the $1.2 million facility boasts soundproof walls, subdued lighting, and sensory tools intended to help travelers relax before their journey.
“The purpose of this is akin to a rehearsal,” he noted. “It allows individuals to practice the boarding and seating processes before actually doing them, helping to create a sense of familiarity when the moment to board the plane arrives.”
Across the country, various airports are developing dedicated spaces for neurodivergent travelers. While these areas are open to all, they are specifically designed for those who may benefit the most. Jono and Marie Miller were utilizing the room with their two sons, 8-year-old Will and 10-year-old Johnny, who are on the spectrum.
“Helping kids understand what to expect greatly assists in easing that transition and likely reduces the chances of meltdowns,” Marie Miller commented.
For Ambata, this space provided the grounding he needed.
“I’m ready,” he expressed.
The sensory room is situated in SFO’s Harvey Milk Terminal but is accessible from all parts of the airport.
