FARGO, N.D. (Valley News Live) –Hector International Airport has become the first airport in the world to install both an immersive reality room and a sensory room inside an operational terminal, airport officials announced.
The new immersive reality room allows travelers to explore more than 700 interactive environments using 360-degree, computer-generated imagery. The technology, developed by Immersive Reality USA, lets users experience destinations such as Buckingham Palace and Walt Disney World without the need for goggles.
Airport leaders say the addition is part of a broader effort to enhance the passenger experience.
“We’re proud Fargo’s airport is the first in the world to offer amenities like our immersive reality and sensory rooms,” said Shawn Dobberstein, executive director of Hector International Airport. “These additions represent our commitment to providing innovative passenger-focused experiences right here in North Dakota.”
The sensory room is designed as a calming space for travelers, particularly children on the autism spectrum and individuals with sensory sensitivities. It features low lighting, comfortable seating and what officials say is the first bubble wall installed in a U.S. airport terminal, offering visual stimulation to promote relaxation.
The new amenities come as part of a larger expansion project at the airport. Construction began in 2024 and includes a terminal expansion, renovation of the existing terminal, a new parking ramp and a skyway connection.
The airport opened its new parking ramp in August 2025, followed by the terminal expansion in February 2026. Officials expect the skyway connecting the ramp to the terminal to be completed by late 2026, with renovations to the existing terminal slated for early 2027.
The project is funded through a combination of local, state and federal partnerships.
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