Changi Airport opens Calm Room for neurodivergent travellers

Changi Airport opens Calm Room - the space supports travellers managing sensory overload

Changi Airport has unveiled the Calm Room, a purpose-designed space to support neurodivergent travellers and their caregivers.

The sensory-friendly facility is the first of its kind to be launched at the airport. The initiative is part of the CARE@Changi programme and is designed to provide a quiet space for passengers and their caregivers to manage sensory overload and travel-related stress.

The room has been developed in collaboration with various welfare associations to create a space that meets the varying needs of neurodivergent travellers. The design also incorporates feedback from interviews and user feedback sessions with families of neurodivergent individuals.

The Calm Room features four zones, including quiet areas for rest and supportive spaces to help passengers recover from emotional overwhelm.

On entering the Calm Room, users are welcomed by a virtual Changi Experience Ambassador display offering on-demand assistance. Cubby holes are provided for visitors' belongings.

Moving into the room, visitors can enter The Forest, an open-concept area with circular, biophilic windows projecting calming visuals of Singapore’s natural landscapes accompanied by gentle music and birdsong. Thoughtfully designed nooks offer private spaces and a variety of seating provides for different resting positions and age groups. 

Moving on, The Den is designed for those who find calm through movement; padded walls, floors and seating surfaces create a safe environment for physical activity. 

A further zone, The Nest, has two acoustically dampened rooms for increased privacy during intense episodes and has colour-turnable lighting to suit sensory needs.

“At Changi Airport, we are committed to create a travel experience that is inclusive and respectful of every individual’s needs,” said Ang Siew Min, senior vice president of Airport Operations Services at Changi Airport Group. “We recognise that the airport environment may be overwhelming for some. The Calm Room is designed to provide passengers and their caregivers the comfort, support, and peace of mind to navigate travel with ease.” 

The Calm Room is located at Terminal 2’s Departure Transit Area at Changi Airport, more details can be found online.