Bush Airport Unveils Second Sensory Room Ahead of Record-Breaking Holiday Travel Season

HOUSTON – Just in time for the busy Thanksgiving travel season, Houston Airports unveiled a new sensory room in the recently expanded Terminal D at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). This dedicated space is designed to provide a peaceful retreat for travelers of all ages who are neurodivergent or have sensory sensitivities.

Bush Airport prioritizes accessibility as a major Texas airport that offers two sensory rooms -- in Terminals A and D -- underscoring the airport system’s commitment to inclusive air travel. Located near Gate D5, the sensory room features lighting, sound and vibration that can be customized by the user for an optimal experience. These elements help to reduce sensory overload and provide a calming space where travelers can find relief from the hustle and bustle of the airport.

“Houston Airports is committed to creating a world-class experience that is welcoming and accessible to all,” said Jim Szczesniak, Director of Aviation for Houston Airports. “The sensory rooms at Bush Airport embody our mission of inclusivity, offering passengers with sensory sensitivities dedicated spaces where they can feel comfortable and supported. This addition is especially valuable during the holidays, when passenger volume is at its peak and stress levels are higher.”

Designed for comfort and community
The sensory room was thoughtfully developed by Houston Airports in collaboration with Southpaw, the only U.S. manufacturer of equipment for multi-sensory rooms. Each traveler can optimize lights, sound and vibrations within the room. The ‘star gazer’ feature, which mimics the night sky on the ceiling of the room, helps to reduce anxiety, according to research.

Ace Garcia, Airport Operations Supervisor for Houston Airports and a driving force behind the sensory room’s development, brought both professional expertise and personal passion to the project.

“Designing the sensory room was more than a project—it was a labor of love,” said Garcia. “As a parent of neurodivergent children, I know firsthand the difference a space like this can make for families. Our goal was to create an environment where travelers can customize their experience to feel comfortable and supported. From the ‘stargazer’ ceiling to interactive features, every detail is designed to help passengers find calm and relief during their journey.”

Ace Garcia, photographed below.