Hartsfield-Jackson opens multi-sensory room for children with autism

A new room at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport aims to help children on the autism spectrum prepare for a flight.

The multi-sensory room now open on Concourse F offers a "soothing, supportive environment" with a tactile activity panel, mini-crash pit and other features to help children on the autism spectrum to acclimate to travel, according to Atlanta-based Delta Air Lines and the airport. The room was opened by the airport and Delta, as well as Wings for Autism, The Arc Georgia and The Arc Midlands, organizations that support people with intellectual and development disabilities.

As part of National Autism Awareness Month, the Atlanta airport also held a travel "rehearsal" this week for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities to practice maneuvering through the world's busiest airport, going through security screening and boarding a plane.

Delta says it also has several pilots that volunteer to lead monthly airport tours in Atlanta and in Minneapolis-St. Paul to familiarize families with autistic children with the airport experience.

Credit: Kelly Yamanouchi

Credit: Kelly Yamanouchi

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