The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) unveiled new sensory maps, instructional videos and other resources at O'Hare and Midway International Airports. They are designed to help neurodivergent travelers feel more comfortable in the airports and prepare for flights.
The maps are visual guides to O'Hare and Midway that highlight high- and low-sensory areas throughout terminals, while the "point-of-view" videos demonstrate what to expect at different stages of the arrival and departure processes at the airports.
Travelers will also be able to pick up sensory bags containing fidgets, headphones, visual aids and other tools.
The sensory resources build on the airports' goals of improving accessibility and making the travel experience less overwhelming for those with disabilities.
Mayor Brandon Johnson said "accessibility for our neurodiverse community is a priority" and that these news resources, along with staff training, help build "an inclusive travel experience at our airports."