Smartavia, a Russian airline, has partnered with the “Anton is Right Here” charity foundation to launch the “Obnimus,” the first anti-stress pillow designed for air travelers, particularly those with a fear of flying or autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The pillow, shaped like a cat and sized to resemble an adult’s torso, aims to provide sensory relief and comfort during flights.

The initiative addresses the significant percentage of Russians who experience anxiety related to flying. According to the Russian Public Opinion Research Center (VTsIOM), 23% of Russians are afraid of flying, with 8% avoiding air travel altogether due to anxiety.

The “Obnimus” pillow was designed by autistic artists, students of the “Anton is Right Here” foundation, and is made from repurposed pilot and flight attendant uniforms. Alexey Kitaits, an autistic artist involved in the project, explained that the cat design was inspired by the warmth and comfort associated with cats.

The airline’s research into anxiety during flights revealed that sensory relief, such as holding a soft object, is an effective coping mechanism for 88% of autistic individuals. The use of old uniforms aligns with sustainable practices, giving the materials a new purpose while minimizing environmental impact.

In addition to the pillow, the “Anton is Right Here” foundation assisted in developing a training program for flight attendants and ground staff on how to support passengers experiencing anxiety. The airline emphasizes that both the pillow and the training program are part of a broader initiative to create an inclusive environment on board its aircraft.

While Emirates, a Dubai-based airline, is recognized as a pioneer in creating inclusive environments, Smartavia claims that the “Obnimus” pillow is a unique physical tool for anti-stress support, making this initiative the second of its kind in the world.

The Development Director of the “Anton is Right Here” foundation, Evgenia Petelchuk, expressed hope that this marks the beginning of improved flight accessibility for individuals with mental disabilities. The first “Obnimus” pillows will be gifted to the students of the “Anton is Right Here” foundation as a token of appreciation for their contribution to the project.

The “Anton is Right Here” foundation, established in 2013 in St. Petersburg, is dedicated to providing comprehensive support for individuals with autism, encompassing early diagnosis, inclusive education, supported employment, and independent living programs.