The Chicago Department of Aviation unveiled sensory maps, instructional videos, and accessibility resources at Chicago O’Hare International Airport and Chicago Midway International Airport in late September. The tools are designed to make travel less overwhelming and more empowering for neurodivergent passengers and other individuals with sensory sensitivities.
“Under Mayor Brandon Johnson’s leadership, improving accessibility at Chicago’s airports is one of our highest priorities,” says Chicago Department of Aviation Commissioner Michael McMurray. “The travel experience can be stressful and overwhelming at times, but we are committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive and supportive environment for people who experience sensory sensitivities and for all passengers at O’Hare and Midway.”
Commissioner Rachel Arfa of the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities adds, “I am proud that our teams at the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities and the Chicago Department of Aviation partnered to continue advancing accessibility in our airports. As we design accessible experiences, accessibility for our neurodiverse community is a priority. With the launch of new sensory-friendly resources, along with staff training, we are all building an inclusive travel experience at our airports.”
The new sensory maps, available on flychicago.com/sensory, are visual guides to O’Hare and Midway that highlight high-, medium-, and low-sensory areas throughout the terminals, helping travelers plan their routes to accommodate their needs and comfort.
The maps highlight sections of each terminal where travelers can expect to experience high-, medium-, or low-sensory input, as well as the locations of security checkpoints and places that tend to have dense crowds. Icons on the map also identify locations with artwork, seating, low lighting, natural lighting, high or low noise levels, strong smells, and other sensory factors travelers may want to consider when planning their trip through O’Hare and Midway.
The Chicago Department of Aviation has also created sensory “point-of-view” videos that demonstrate what to expect at different stages of the arrival and departure process at Chicago’s airports. Also available on Chicago Department of Aviation social media channels are social stories featuring step-by-step guides with visuals to prepare travelers for the airport experience, from arriving at the terminal to boarding the plane. In addition to these digital resources, sensory bags containing fidgets, headphones, visual aids, and other tools to support travelers are also available at airport information desks. The Chicago Department of Aviation has also created extensive online Accessibility Guides for O’Hare and Midway to highlight resources, accommodations and amenities available at both airports.
Fly Calm at Chicago O’Hare International Airport: https://youtu.be/Wpv6Bwgz6wM
Fly Calm at Chicago Midway International Airport: https://youtu.be/PuuEXdYw6ak
