Navigating an airport can be overwhelming for anyone—long lines, noisy terminals, and constant motion. But for neurodivergent travelers, the sensory overload can be even more daunting. Fortunately, Newark Liberty International Airport is leading the charge in making air travel more accessible and inclusive for all passengers, including those with sensory sensitivities or other neurodiverse needs. Here’s how Newark is making a difference, and why other airports should follow suit.
Why Inclusive Travel Matters
When we think of accessibility in travel, we often imagine ramps or elevators for people with physical disabilities. However, accessibility also includes addressing the needs of neurodivergent individuals—those with conditions like autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorder, and anxiety disorders. These passengers may struggle with the overwhelming stimuli that airports present: loud announcements, flashing lights, crowded spaces, and long waits.
In fact, studies show that over 1 in 6 children in the U.S. are diagnosed with a developmental disability, which often includes conditions that impact sensory processing. This highlights the importance of making travel spaces more inclusive, especially for the growing number of neurodivergent travelers.
Newark Airport’s Sensory Room: A Step Toward Inclusivity
Newark Liberty International Airport recently unveiled a sensory room designed to help travelers with sensory sensitivities find relief before or after their flights. This sensory-friendly space, located in Terminal A, provides a peaceful retreat for passengers who may need to escape the usual hustle and bustle of the airport. The underwater-themed room includes calming features like soft lighting, noise-reducing headphones, tactile activities, and cozy seating, allowing passengers to relax in a controlled environment.
This initiative is part of a broader movement within the travel industry to make flying more accessible for neurodivergent individuals. Newark’s sensory room is one of the first in the U.S. to offer a dedicated space for this purpose, but it’s quickly becoming a model for other airports to follow.
What Makes Newark’s Efforts Stand Out
The sensory room at Newark isn’t just a gimmick—it’s a carefully designed space that takes the needs of neurodivergent passengers seriously. Here’s what makes it stand out:
- Calming Design: The room is equipped with soft furniture and sensory-friendly elements like dim lighting, soothing sounds, and textures that help reduce overstimulation.
- Accessibility: Passengers don’t need to book the space in advance. It’s available to anyone who needs it, making it a spontaneous option for anyone feeling overwhelmed.
- Collaboration with Experts: Newark worked closely with sensory inclusion experts to ensure the space meets the diverse needs of travelers, ensuring it’s not just a quiet place but a truly supportive environment.
How Other Airports Can Follow Newark’s Lead
While Newark is setting a great example, more airports need to take action to ensure that traveling is an inclusive experience for everyone. Here’s how they can follow Newark’s lead:
Sensory Rooms: Other airports should create sensory rooms with similar features, making them easily accessible to travelers who need a break from sensory overload.
Staff Training: Airport staff should be trained to understand the needs of neurodivergent passengers, offering assistance when necessary and making the journey smoother.
Clear Signage and Communication: Providing clear and simple signage that reduces confusion can help travelers navigate airports more easily. Digital apps with features like noise reduction, flight tracking, and step-by-step guides can also make airports less stressful.
Customizable Travel Tools: Airports could offer noise-canceling headphones, calming kits, or virtual tours to help neurodivergent travelers prepare for their journey in advance.
The Growing Demand for Inclusive Travel
According to experts in the field, the growing awareness of neurodivergent individuals’ travel needs reflects a broader societal shift toward inclusivity. The travel industry is increasingly recognizing that accessibility doesn’t stop at physical accommodations—it must extend to sensory and cognitive needs as well.
The shift toward inclusive travel is also supported by studies showing that sensory-friendly environments improve overall satisfaction for neurodivergent passengers. By making these accommodations, airports not only enhance the travel experience for neurodivergent individuals but also set a higher standard of customer service that benefits all passengers.
Final Thoughts: More Inclusive Travel is a Win-Win
Newark’s sensory room is just one example of how airports can better support neurodivergent travelers. With more awareness and action, other airports can implement similar changes that make flying more comfortable and less stressful for a wide range of passengers. As airports like Newark lead the way, we’re hopeful that inclusive travel will become the norm, not the exception. After all, a smoother, more inclusive journey benefits everyone, whether they’re neurodivergent or not.
By prioritizing inclusivity, airports can transform the travel experience from stressful to enjoyable for all. It’s time for the rest of the world to catch up.
