Indianapolis International Airport (IND) announced it is now a KultureCity certified venue because of its many features and efforts to be sensory inclusive to the traveling public.
IND airport staff are trained to recognize airport guests with sensory needs as well as how to handle a sensory overload situation. The airport also has two quiet sensory rooms located post-security with calm, soothing environments with a variety of seating options, private space to relax with variable lighting, noise cancelling headphones and blankets, along with sensory bags, equipped with various fidget tools and an airplane-shaped stress ball.
The efforts are for people with disabilities and sensory challenges, like autism, dementia, PTSD and other sensory conditions, who may feel overwhelmed with the busy and stimulating environment of an airport terminal.
“Everyone should have the opportunity to experience the world as fully as possible, and travel is one way that we do that,” said Mario Rodriguez, executive director of the Indianapolis Airport Authority, operator of IND. “Our community partnership programs like KultureCity, Soaring for Autism and other dedicated efforts are opportunities to provide excellent customer service to everyone, including those with disabilities and sensory conditions.”
IND also partners with the Autism Society of Indiana to host Soaring for Autism events twice a year that brings individuals of all ages with autism and their companions (families, caregivers and friends) together to experience travel through the airport.
