Current:Home > StocksSFO's new sensory room helps neurodivergent travelers fight flying jitters -SecureNest Finance
SFO's new sensory room helps neurodivergent travelers fight flying jitters
View
Date:2025-04-18 20:16:09
The San Francisco International Airport has introduced a new sensory room designed to give neurodivergent travelers some relief from flying jitters.
Airports are a whirlwind of activity: long lines, blaring announcements and the never-ending stream of travelers racing to their gates.
While most take it in stride, for 29-year-old Nico Ambata, it's always been a little too much.
"It took my wife three years of convincing me to finally go on vacation," he said.
Ambata has debilitating ADHD. For him, the unpredictability of flying isn't just stressful; it's paralyzing.
"I like to explain that I have a million channels playing in my head at the same time," he said.
But this time, Ambata and his wife Jhasmine are taking their first step at conquering the chaos of travel. They've boarded a plane at San Francisco International Airport. Or least it seems that way.
With two rows of seats, overhead bins and even working lights, the cabin simulator is the centerpiece of SFO's new sensory room designed for neurodivergent travelers looking to ease their feelings of nervousness over flying.
Christopher Birch, SFO's Guest Experience Director, said the $1.2 million space includes soundproof walls, dim lighting, and sensory tools to help travelers decompress before their flight.
"The reason to do this is almost like a rehearsal," he said. "To go through the boarding and the sitting process before you actually do it and to give a sense of familiarity when the time comes to actually board the airplane."
Airports across the country are dedicated spaces for neurodivergent travelers. While anyone can enjoy them, they're designed for those who need it most. Jono and Marie Miller were using the room with their two boys, 8-year-old Will and 10-year-old Johnny, who are on the spectrum.
"Just letting kids know what to expect helps with that transition a lot and probably helps to not have so many meltdowns," Marie Miller said.
As for Ambata, the space is all he needed to feel grounded.
"I'm ready," he said.
The sensory room is located at SFO's Harvey Milk Terminal, but can be accessed from all areas of the airport.
- In:
- San Francisco International Airport
- Psychology
- San Francisco
Disclaimer: The copyright of this article belongs to the original author. Reposting this article is solely for the purpose of information dissemination and does not constitute any investment advice. If there is any infringement, please contact us immediately. We will make corrections or deletions as necessary. Thank you.
veryGood! (4434)
Related
- Most popular books of the week: See what topped USA TODAY's bestselling books list
- Transcript: David Martin and John Sullivan on Face the Nation, June 25, 2023
- Sister Wives' Kody and Janelle Brown Reunite for Daughter Savannah's Graduation After Breakup
- Thousands of Starbucks baristas set to strike amid Pride decorations dispute
- Federal appeals court upholds $14.25 million fine against Exxon for pollution in Texas
- On a Melting Planet, More Precisely Tracking the Decline of Ice
- Titan sub passengers signed waivers covering death. Could their families still sue OceanGate?
- Cheer's Morgan Simianer Marries Stone Burleson
- House passes bill to add 66 new federal judgeships, but prospects murky after Biden veto threat
- Why Shay Mitchell Isn't Making Marriage Plans With Partner Matte Babel
Ranking
- Hackers hit Rhode Island benefits system in major cyberattack. Personal data could be released soon
- Hurricane Season Collides With Coronavirus, as Communities Plan For Dual Emergencies
- Sea squirts and 'skeeters in our science news roundup
- Jana Kramer Recalls Releasing Years of Shame After Mike Caussin Divorce
- Opinion: Gianni Infantino, FIFA sell souls and 2034 World Cup for Saudi Arabia's billions
- Love Is Blind’s Bartise Bowden Breaks Down His Relationship With His “Baby Mama”
- 3 San Antonio police officers charged with murder after fatal shooting
- Trump Budget Risks ‘Serious Harm’ to America’s Energy Future, 7 Former DOE Officials Warn
Recommendation
Paris Hilton, Nicole Richie return for an 'Encore,' reminisce about 'The Simple Life'
Tyson Ritter Says Machine Gun Kelly Went Ballistic on Him Over Megan Fox Movie Scene Suggestion
Hurricane Season Collides With Coronavirus, as Communities Plan For Dual Emergencies
RHONJ Reunion Teaser: Teresa Giudice Declares She's Officially Done With Melissa Gorga
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow owns a $3 million Batmobile Tumbler
Love Is Blind’s Bartise Bowden Breaks Down His Relationship With His “Baby Mama”
Jana Kramer Recalls Releasing Years of Shame After Mike Caussin Divorce
As Solar Pushes Electricity Prices Negative, 3 Solutions for California’s Power Grid