Hector International Airport becomes first to offer immersive reality and sensory rooms for passengers
Fargo, North Dakota – Hector International Airport has reached a major milestone in passenger experience, becoming the first airport in the world to introduce both an immersive reality room and a sensory room inside an active terminal. The new additions, now available to travelers in Fargo, North Dakota, are designed to transform how people experience time inside an airport, offering both excitement and calm in one location.
The announcement marks a unique step forward, blending advanced technology with thoughtful design to meet the needs of a wide range of travelers. Airport officials say the goal is not only to modernize the space but also to create an environment that feels welcoming and accessible to everyone.
“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.”
A new way to experience travel before takeoff
The immersive reality room introduces a completely new kind of airport attraction. Using technology developed by Immersive Reality USA, the space allows travelers to step into lifelike environments without needing any goggles or wearable devices. Inside the room, visitors are surrounded by 360-degree computer-generated imagery, creating the feeling of being transported somewhere else entirely.
Passengers can explore more than 700 interactive environments, ranging from well-known landmarks like Buckingham Palace to popular destinations such as Walt Disney World. The experience offers a chance to travel virtually even before boarding a flight, turning waiting time into something memorable.
Gareth Jones, founder of Immersive Reality USA, highlighted the broader impact of the project.
“We’re delighted to have worked with Hector International Airport on this project,” Jones said. “Airports bring together people from every background and age group, and immersive environments offer a simple way to create engaging, inclusive spaces within busy terminals. Seeing the first immersive reality room installed in an operational airport – and doing so with a forward-thinking partner like Hector International – is an exciting milestone for both passenger experience and accessible design.”
A calming space designed for comfort and inclusion
Alongside the immersive experience, the airport has also introduced a sensory room aimed at providing a quiet and calming environment. This space is especially helpful for children on the autism spectrum and for individuals who may feel overwhelmed in busy airport settings.
The sensory room features soft lighting, comfortable seating, and a peaceful atmosphere designed to reduce stress. One of its most notable elements is the first bubble wall installed in a U.S. airport terminal. The gently moving bubbles create a soothing visual effect, helping visitors relax and reset before continuing their journey.
These additions come as part of a larger effort to improve and expand the airport’s facilities. Hector International Airport broke ground in 2024 on a major development project that includes a terminal expansion, renovation of the existing terminal, a new parking ramp, and a skyway connection.
The parking ramp opened in August 2025, followed by the terminal expansion in February 2026. Work is ongoing, with the skyway expected to be completed in late 2026 and the remaining terminal renovations scheduled for early 2027. These projects have been supported through funding from local, state, and federal partners.
