Sensory Corner opens at Hong Kong International Airport

Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) has become the latest gateway to open a sensory area for people with hidden disabilities.

Its new Sensory Corner provides a dedicated space for passengers with hidden disabilities such as autism, attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and mental health conditions.

Now HKG operator, Airport Authority of Hong Kong (AAHK) has invited professional organisations, people with invisible disabilities and their caretakers to provide comments on the design of Sensory Corner.

Damien Green, founder of the Hong Kong Autism Institute, said: “It is estimated that one in every 39 children has autism in Hong Kong, according to The Chinese University of Hong Kong.

“People with autism may generally experience hypersensitivity or very low sensitivity to their surroundings. What we worry about most is hypersensitivity in an environment like the airport, a fast moving and busy transport hub, with things like sound, movement and light.

“It is therefore important that we cater to those sensitivities and needs when it comes to autistic travellers.”

Chris Au Young, AAHK’s general manager for terminal and passenger experience of AAHK, noted: “We understand that travellers with invisible disabilities may find it challenging to wait for their flight in the busy environment of an airport.

“We hope that the Sensory Corner can provide them with a quiet, safe space, away from the crowds, where they can wait comfortably for boarding. This is in line with our commitment to ensuring that every passenger enjoys a high-quality airport experience.”

Located on the Departures Level in the airport’s restricted area of Terminal 1, the 30 square metres Sensory Corner adopted an array of special features that would help users regulate their emotions.

The walls and floor are fitted with soft padding to ensure users’ safety; the lighting is adjustable depending on the users’ preference and needs.

The Sky Explorium is equipped with interactive multi-sensory features, including the Bubble Tube, Colour Command Centre, Hip Hop Activity Box, Serene Scene Panel, Musical Abstract Tactile Panel and a bean bag, offering visual, auditory and tactile stimulation to physically active users.

And its Sky Cocoon simulates an aircraft’s cabin environment, providing a calm and separated space while helping users familiarise themselves with the cabin environment in advance to be prepared emotionally for their journey.

Green added: “The airport is showing leadership to other organisations in the city and beyond to take measures to support autistic travellers and autistic people in terms of inclusiveness generally.”