In a move to enhance accessibility and inclusion in air travel, Orlando International Airport (MCO) has unveiled “Annie’s Space Sensory Room,” a calming and interactive sanctuary designed for travelers with sensory sensitivities and their families.
The new sensory space, located in Terminal A on Level 3 near the food court, was officially opened this week by members of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) Board and MCO leadership. The room is part of the airport’s continued efforts to create a welcoming and supportive experience for all passengers, including those who are neurodiverse.
“Annie’s Space brings innovation and heart together in a truly meaningful way,” said Tim Weisheyer, GOAA Board Chairman. “By combining evidence-based design with immersive, space-themed elements, we’ve created a calming experience that reflects our dedication to the people-first mission. This project sets a new standard for how we can elevate accessibility through creativity and care.”
The space-themed room offers a soothing environment filled with glowing moon rocks, a Milky Way-inspired carpet, interactive bubble tubes, tactile panels, a rocket sculpture, and even a moon cave. The airport’s friendly mascot, Annie the Astronaut, guides young travelers on a sensory-friendly space journey designed to calm and inspire.
“At MCO, we believe every passenger deserves a smooth and welcoming journey,” said Lance Lyttle, CEO of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, which manages Orlando International Airport. “Annie’s Space is more than just a room; it is a reflection of our commitment to innovation and care for our passengers and their families.”
Built as a proprietary Snoezelen® Multi-Sensory Environment from School Specialty, the room features tools and textures that allow guests to independently navigate their own calming experiences. These environments are known to reduce anxiety, improve attention, and offer therapeutic relief for individuals with sensory processing differences.
“What makes a Snoezelen room unique is its foundation in independence and exploration—users become the architects of their own experience,” said Crystal Paulitzki, Sensory Spaces Expert with School Specialty.
The sensory room launch follows MCO’s achievement of becoming a Certified Autism Center in April 2024. The airport earned this prestigious recognition from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) after more than 80% of its staff completed extensive training on autism awareness and neurodiversity sensitivity.
Annie’s Space complements a range of other inclusive programs already in place at MCO, including:
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Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program – Offers lanyards to help passengers discreetly communicate their need for assistance.
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MCO Paw Pilots Therapy Dog Program – Features therapy dogs who help reduce anxiety for travelers before boarding.
Annie’s Space Sensory Room is open daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
With nearly 58 million annual passengers, Orlando International Airport continues to lead the way in making travel more inclusive, accessible, and positively welcoming for every guest.
For more information, visit orlandoairports.net.