City offers maps, guides to prepare neurodivergent travelers for sensory overload at airports
Navigating the ticket counters, security screening and sheer breadth of one of the world’s busiest airports can be a bit of a gauntlet for any traveler.
That stress is amplified for passengers with conditions such as autism, who are more sensitive to the intense noises, lighting and scents at O’Hare International Airport.
“There’s a lot of talking, announcements, crowds,” Chicago Department of Aviation ADA Coordinator Xochitl Rodriguez explained. “There’s a lot of processes — the security screening, getting your ticket, getting to the gate.”
That’s why the CDA now is offering new tools at O’Hare and Midway International Airport to make the trip more comfortable and predictable for neurodivergent flyers.
“This initiative’s very important because for people with sensory sensitivities, there’s a lot of things they have to take into account before any experience,” Rodriguez said Wednesday.
The city’s enhanced accessibility program kicked off Sept. 24 and offers four different strategies for a smoother journey.
Before traveling, passengers can watch immersive videos that capture the noise of airport buses and trains, clatter of baggage carts, chatter of passengers, beeps from machinery, whirring of walkways and crescendo of jet engines.
Also available are “Social Stories” — guides offering step-by-step details of arriving and departing, plus reassurances such as: “The airport will be busy and noisy, but that’s OK.”
“These are specifically designed to review in the comfort of your home and to prepare,” Rodriguez noted.
At the airport, flyers can use sensory maps that identify areas with dense crowds, noisy beeping, strong smells and other scenarios, which could trigger stress. On the flip side, locations with seating, natural light, art and “calm spots” are highlighted, as well.
In addition, the CDA provides sensory bags with headphones, fidgets, dry erase boards to help communicate, sunglasses and other supports at information kiosks in terminals.
The CDA began partnering with the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program in 2024. Travelers can pick up lanyards with the sunflower symbol, intended to raise awareness of hidden disabilities, at kiosks.
Rodriguez said the concept stemmed from interacting with individuals with disabilities at previous jobs with the Chicago Park District and Easter Seals. “The CDA team took my idea and brought it to fruition.”
The agency also coordinated with the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities and autism organizations, conducting walk-throughs of both airports with experts.
In addition, the new program can benefit first-timers at O’Hare and Midway, or anyone who is apprehensive about flying.
“We’re always pushing to improve the passenger experience,” Rodriguez said.
For more information, visit flychicago.com/ordaccessibility or flychicago.com/mdwaccessibility.
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The new highway maps are here! The Illinois Department of Transportation announced last week its latest map is ready, featuring updated listings of colleges, Amtrak service, tourist attractions and natural areas. The map also marks the 100th anniversary of Route 66. To obtain your own copy, email DOT.maps@illinois.gov or pick one up at interstate rest areas and IDOT locations.
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