Bengaluru Airport Pioneers Sensory Room for Neurodivergent Travellers
Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru has launched India’s first-ever sensory room, designed to support neurodivergent passengers and individuals with sensory sensitivities. This ground-breaking facility, strategically located near the 080 International Lounge on Level 4 of Terminal 2, seeks to provide a safe, soothing environment for those who find the bustling, noisy, and often overwhelming atmosphere of an airport challenging. This initiative marks a pioneering effort in the country’s aviation industry to accommodate a diverse range of passengers, further solidifying the airport’s commitment to enhancing passenger experience and inclusivity.
The sensory room at Bengaluru Airport is thoughtfully equipped with calming elements aimed at reducing stress and sensory overload. Features such as bubble tubes, ambient lighting, soft textures, and aromatherapy are specifically chosen to create a relaxing atmosphere that can help ease anxiety and provide relief from the high-stimulation environment that airports often present. The room serves as a haven for neurodivergent travellers, including those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or other conditions that make conventional airport spaces uncomfortable.
Designed with careful consideration of the unique needs of these passengers, the room provides an opportunity to take respite and restore calm before continuing their journey. The decision to introduce such a space highlights the growing recognition of the need for airports to cater to the diverse needs of modern travellers, who may face physical, emotional, or cognitive challenges that require specialized support. While the sensory room is tailored to those with neurodivergence, it is also available to anyone who may experience sensory overload, such as those with anxiety or other conditions that can be exacerbated by loud noises, bright lights, or crowded spaces.
This move comes as part of a broader global trend towards making public spaces more inclusive and accommodating for individuals with varying physical and mental health needs. Around the world, airports, museums, and other public venues are increasingly implementing sensory-friendly initiatives to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their challenges, can access and enjoy public services in a comfortable and supportive environment. Bengaluru Airport’s decision to establish a sensory room also aligns with India’s broader efforts to improve accessibility for people with disabilities, a population often overlooked in the development of public infrastructure.
The introduction of this sensory room not only benefits neurodivergent travellers but also serves as an important example of how infrastructure can be designed to be more inclusive. It underlines the importance of creating spaces where individuals with different needs can feel welcomed and supported. This initiative contributes to the ongoing conversation about making urban spaces more inclusive, ensuring that all citizens have the opportunity to fully participate in society, regardless of their individual challenges.
Bengaluru International Airport’s commitment to improving accessibility and inclusivity sets a new standard for airports in India. The move is expected to inspire other airports across the country to consider similar initiatives, paving the way for a more accessible and understanding future in air travel. In the long term, such developments will likely become essential in ensuring that India’s infrastructure is aligned with the values of equality and equity, providing accessible spaces for all.
