Air Travel and Sensory Differences: Why It’s Hard and What Can Help
Busy airport terminal
For many neurodivergent individuals, including autistic people, those with ADHD, sensory processing differences, or hidden disabilities, airports and air travel can be some of the most overwhelming environments they encounter.
The busy crowds, unfamiliar procedures, loud announcements, bright lights, sudden changes, and long waiting periods can turn what should be an exciting journey into a stressful experience.
But with planning, support, and the right sensory tools, air travel can become far more manageable and even enjoyable.
Reasons Why Air Travel Can Be Overwhelming
1. Sensory Overload
Airports are full of sensory challenges which include but are not limited to:
Harsh fluorescent lighting
Echoing announcements
Crowded spaces
Unexpected alarms
Unpredictable smells (fuel, food courts, perfumes)
For many people this can be unpleasant but bearable. However, for someone with sensory sensitivities, this environment can quickly become too much.
2. Unclear Routines & Sudden Transitions
Security, boarding, queues, and last-minute changes disrupt predictability.
Neurodivergent travellers often feel calmer when they know:
What will happen
When it will happen
What to expect
Air travel rarely offers that naturally.
3. Long Periods of Sitting and Waiting
For individuals who need movement, proprioceptive input, or sensory regulation breaks, waiting at gates or sitting still on a plane can be particularly hard.
4. Social Pressure and Hidden Disabilities
Some people feel uncomfortable asking for extra time or accommodations. Hidden disabilities aren’t visible but they do require support without creating extra stress or anxiety for the person with the disability.
Practical Strategies That Can Help
1. Plan Ahead and Use Airport Services
Many airports now offer quiet waiting areas, sensory rooms, pre-boarding options and assistance through airport pathways. Consider applying for a sunflower lanyard if you do not have already have one which will signal the need for support. Over 300 airports worldwide now recognise sunflower lanyards.
Calling the airline ahead of time to check on support can also reduce unexpected stress and some airports allow you to request assistance ahead of time through completing an online form on their accessibility page.
2. Create a Personal Sensory Toolkit
A small sensory travel kit to bring some comfort when feeling overwhelmed might include:
Sunglasses or a cap
Chewing gum or chewy jewellery
Weighted lap pad (if permitted)
Calming scents (if tolerated)
These tools help regulate sensory input in unpredictable environments.
3. Use Heavy Work Before and During Travel
Proprioceptive (deep pressure) activities are grounding and organising.
Try:
Carrying a small backpack
Pushing a suitcase
Chair push-ups
Stretching bands
Wall pushes
These can help the nervous system feel calmer. In addition to heavy work, ride on suitcases can also be a good way to provide vestibular or movement sensory input that some children may find regulating before a long flight.
4. Prepare with Social Stories or Visual Guides
These work especially well for children and autistic travellers as predictability can help to decrease anxiety.
Include:
Photos of the airport
Steps of security
What the plane looks like
How long the flight will last
What is okay to do to feel calm
Check airport websites as some airports provide these social stories on their websites.
5. Bring Entertainment and Comfort Items
Tablets with preloaded films or shows, games, music, audio players with story cards, books, and familiar comfort objects (soft toy, blanket) can reduce stress and provide distraction during delays or difficult moments.
6. Pack Sensory-Friendly Snacks
Airports can be loud, busy, and rushed — safe snacks help maintain stability when routines break down.
Include:
Crunchy foods (calming for many people)
Preferred textures
Hydration
7. Choose Seating Strategically
You may consider:
Aisle seats for movement
Window seats for reduced foot traffic
Front-of-plane seats (quieter)
Away from toilets (noisy)
8. Advocate Without Apologising
Neurodivergent needs are valid.
It’s okay to:
Request extra time
Find a quiet space
Use noise protection
Pre-board
Say you need support
Air travel is stressful even for neurotypical people, neurodivergent travellers simply benefit from a little more accommodation.
Final Thoughts
Air travel doesn’t have to be overwhelming for neurodivergent travellers. With preparation, sensory supports, and confidence in advocating for individual needs, the journey can feel much more manageable. Every traveller deserves comfort, dignity, and calm and small adjustments can make a big difference.
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