Image courtesy of Wayne County Airport Authority
The Wayne County Airport Authority and Delta Air Lines have unveiled a new Multi-Sensory Room at Detroit Metropolitan Airport, designed to provide a calm, supportive space for travelers with sensory sensitivities or cognitive disabilities. Located in the McNamara Terminal, this tranquil retreat features soothing colors, sounds, and activities, offering respite from the busy airport environment. Accessible 24/7, the room is available across from Gate A36 and requires a mobile phone access code for entry.
WCAA CEO Chad Newton highlights that adding the Multi-Sensory Room reflects the Airport Authority’s commitment to reducing travel stress and creating an inclusive environment for all guests.
“I want to thank our partners at Delta Air Lines and our local experts for helping to make this project a reality,” Newton said.
Hussein Berry, Delta’s Vice President of Airport Operations at DTW, emphasizes that Delta believes travel is for everyone and is committed to creating elevated customer experiences.
“Delta is proud to partner with the Wayne County Airport Authority as DTW joins the list of airports that provide a calming, supportive environment rooted in research for customers with sensory sensitivities and their families as they travel,” Berry said.
The Multi-Sensory Room boasts several features that support self-regulation and relaxation, including:
- Crash Pad: Allows for increased tactile input due to the material and flexibility of the pad. The large pad creates deep pressure, which can help reduce anxiety.
- Fiber Optic Bean Bag: Provides various sensory feedback to promote the regulation of the nervous system. The fiber optic strands attached to the bean bag provide visual input in a predictable manner and tactile input through touch.
- Musical Hand Wall: Allows users to create the sound of their choice by placing their hand on the wall.
- Sensory Wall: Provides visual stimulation and consists of different shapes and textures to increase tactile input that helps calm users and promote relaxation.
- Tree with built-in cubby: Fosters a sense of safety and allows the individual to escape sensory input from the environment.
WCAA and Delta Air Lines worked alongside Dr. Olivia Goeddeke, an occupational therapist, and consulted Carol Gray, a renowned autism expert and member of Delta’s Advisory Board on Disability, in development of the Multi-Sensory Room.
“I had the opportunity to collaborate with the Wayne County Airport Authority and Delta to create a Multi-Sensory Room and was a part of the team that brainstormed, developed, and created each feature in this space,” Dr. Goeddeke said.
“It is rewarding to see our vision brought to life and to know that neurodivergent passengers will have an improved airport experience.”
Gray emphasized that various sensory activities allow visitors to explore and select from several interactive options, creating a personalized self-regulatory experience.
“The new Sensory Room at DTW for passengers with autism and sensory sensitivities is an essential step in Delta Air Lines’ commitment to make air travel comfortably accessible for all,” Gray said.
WCAA has long supported travelers with disabilities through the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, On Board with Autism in partnership with Delta Air Lines, and practice flights for families.
Arvid Petersen, Chief Operating Officer of The Petersen Companies, managed the construction of the Multi-Sensory Room.
“It is so exciting to see Delta and the Wayne County Airport Authority cultivating an inclusive travel experience for neurodivergent individuals,” Petersen said.
“This will positively impact many families, including mine, making my granddaughter’s travel less overwhelming. The Petersen Companies, Inc. was honored to be a part of making the Multi-Sensory space come to fruition.”