Exploring the New Sensory Room at Adelaide Airport for Stress-Free Pre Flight Waiting

Waiting at airports can be stressful for many travelers. The noise, crowds, and long lines often add to pre-flight anxiety. Recognising this, Adelaide Airport has introduced a new sensory room designed to provide a calm and soothing space for passengers before their flights. This innovative facility aims to reduce stress and create a more comfortable travel experience for everyone.

https://adelaideairport.com.au/accessibility/sensory-room/

What Is a Sensory Room?

A sensory room is a specially designed space that uses lighting, sound, textures, and colors to create a calming environment. These rooms are often used in schools, hospitals, and therapy centres to help people with sensory processing difficulties, anxiety, or stress. At Adelaide Airport, the sensory room is tailored to meet the needs of travellers who want a peaceful place to relax before boarding.

The room features:

• Soft, adjustable lighting that can be dimmed or brightened

• Comfortable seating options, including bean bags and cushioned chairs

• Gentle ambient sounds or white noise to mask airport noise

• Textured wall panels and calming colours to create a soothing atmosphere

• Minimal distractions to help travellers focus on relaxation

  
  

Why Adelaide Airport Introduced the Sensory Room

Air travel can be overwhelming, especially for people with sensory sensitivities, anxiety, or those traveling with children. Long waits, loud announcements, and crowded terminals often increase stress levels. Adelaide Airport’s sensory room addresses these challenges by providing a dedicated space where passengers can unwind.

The airport’s management noted that many travelers expressed a need for a quiet area to decompress. This new facility supports mental well-being and improves the overall travel experience. It also aligns with growing awareness about accessibility and inclusivity in public spaces.

Who Benefits from the Sensory Room?

The sensory room is designed for a wide range of travelers, including:

• People with autism or sensory processing disorders who may find busy airport environments overwhelming

• Passengers experiencing travel anxiety or stress

• Families with young children who need a calm space to settle down

• Elderly travelers who prefer a quieter waiting area

• Anyone seeking a break from the noise and activity of the terminal

  
  

By offering this space, Adelaide Airport helps make travel more comfortable and accessible for all passengers.

How to Use the Sensory Room at Adelaide Airport

The sensory room, located between the Virgin Lounge and the Airport Pharmacy, is open to all passengers free of charge; booking is recommended. Here are some tips for making the most of the space:

• Plan ahead: Check the airport map or website to find the sensory room location before your trip.

• Limit time: To allow others to use the room, try to keep your visit to around 15-20 minutes.

• Use calming techniques: Bring headphones for personal music or guided meditation apps if you prefer.

• Respect others: Keep noise levels low and avoid using phones loudly inside the room.

• Ask staff for help: Airport staff can guide you to the sensory room and assist if needed.

  
  

Real Traveller Experiences

Several travellers have already shared positive feedback about the sensory room. One passenger with sensory sensitivities said the room helped reduce their anxiety and made waiting for their flight much easier. Parents travelling with toddlers appreciated the quiet space where their children could relax without distractions.

These stories highlight how the sensory room improves the airport experience by addressing the emotional and sensory needs of passengers.

The Impact on Airport Experience

Introducing a sensory room is part of a broader effort to make airports more passenger-friendly. Stress and anxiety can affect travelers’ health and behavior, sometimes leading to delays or conflicts. Providing a calm space helps passengers feel more in control and relaxed.

Airports worldwide are beginning to recognize the importance of mental well-being in travel. Adelaide Airport’s sensory room sets a positive example by showing how small changes can make a big difference.

Tips for Travellers to Manage Stress at Airports

Besides using the sensory room, travellers can try these strategies to reduce pre-flight stress:

• Arrive early to avoid rushing

• Practice deep breathing or mindfulness exercises

• Stay hydrated and eat light meals

• Bring entertainment like books or podcasts

• Use noise-cancelling headphones to block out loud sounds

• Take short walks around the terminal to stretch and relax

  
  

Combining these habits with the sensory room’s calming environment can create a much smoother travel experience.