In airports and major transportation hubs—whether it’s a busy terminal, rest stop, or train station—changing tables are subject to some of the most demanding conditions of any public space. Constant traffic, a wide range of users, fast-paced environments, and heightened safety expectations all raise the bar for performance. In these settings, a changing table needs to do more than meet basic requirements—it must deliver on accessibility, durability, safety, and ease of use, all at once. Here are six essential features to consider when selecting the right solution for high-traffic transportation environments:

Options for All Bodies

Transportation hubs welcome travelers of all ages and abilities, making it essential to provide changing solutions that accommodate all these factors. Imagine going to a rest stop on a road trip and not being able to use the bathroom! From infants to older children and adults who require assistance, a one-size-fits-all approach simply isn’t enough. Offering a range of options—both baby changing stations and adult-sized changing tables—ensures that caregivers can support their loved ones safely and with dignity. Inclusive solutions help create a more equitable travel experience, so no one is left without the facilities they need.

Safety and Durability

Changing stations in airports must meet an uncompromising standard of safety and durability. It’s not enough to simply meet ADA requirements—these tables must perform reliably under constant, heavy use while ensuring the safety and dignity of every user. In high-traffic environments, that means prioritizing robust construction and thoughtful design at every level, including:

• Built from strong, durable materials that withstand bacteria
• Secure wall attachment for maximum stability
• Heavy-duty hinges built for frequent operation
• Contoured surfaces that support safe positioning
• High weight capacities to accommodate a wide range of users
• Safety straps and/or side barriers for added security
• Obstruction detection on powered adult changing tables to prevent accidents

Every detail should work together to create a dependable, long-lasting solution that caregivers can trust in even the busiest settings.

Read more: Why Materials Matter in Baby Changing Stations

Low Maintenance and Easy-to-Clean

In fast-paced environments, changing stations must be as easy to maintain as they are safe to use. With frequent, daily use, surfaces should be non-porous and designed for quick, effective cleaning to support hygiene between users. Thoughtful construction – for example, the tray on the Ascent® Changing Table that’s made from a single piece of vacuum-formed ABS plastic - helps prevent the buildup of dirt and bacteria, while durable materials stand up to repeated cleaning without degrading over time. Low-maintenance designs—with minimal crevices, reliable hardware, and easy-to-operate mechanisms—help reduce downtime and ensure the table is always ready when travelers need it.

Simple Operation

In a transportation hub, people are often in a rush, making it essential that restroom experiences are quick, seamless, and stress-free, especially when using an adult changing station. Unfortunately, many units can feel cumbersome or difficult to operate, adding unnecessary strain for caregivers.

Sova’s Ascent adult changing table is designed to eliminate that friction with intuitive, user-friendly controls. Features like dual, easy-to-use height adjustment buttons and a directly-attached actuator provide smooth, responsive, and lag-free movement, allowing caregivers to position the table effortlessly and focus on what matters most—providing safe, dignified care.

Space Efficiency

Every inch of restroom space matters. With limited square footage and constant foot traffic, airport planners may be tempted to disregard a universal changing table—but facilities can balance accessibility with efficient layout. Instead of bulky, permanent counters, compact, fold-down solutions are a smarter alternative, allowing restrooms to maintain open, usable space when the table isn’t in use while still providing full functionality when needed.

Sova’s Ascent 70 and Attend 70 tables are designed with this balance in mind, offering a fully compliant, space-saving profile paired with a spacious 70" changing surface when deployed. This ensures caregivers have the room they need without compromising the overall flow, capacity, or design of the restroom.

Visibility & Signage

Even the most well-designed universal changing station won’t make an impact if people don’t know it exists. In large transportation hubs, clear visibility and wayfinding are essential. Signage should be prominent, easy to understand, and consistently placed throughout the facility to guide travelers to the nearest accessible restroom. Just as importantly, staff should be aware of the table’s location so they can confidently direct those in need. Without proper labeling and communication, even the best amenities go underutilized—making visibility just as critical as the product itself.

Designing restrooms for airports and transportation hubs means planning for more than just volume—it requires thoughtful solutions that serve a wide range of needs in fast-paced, high-pressure environments. From safety and durability to ease of use, hygiene, and visibility, every detail plays a role in creating a space that truly supports travelers and caregivers alike. By choosing well-designed, adult and baby changing tables, facilities can go beyond basic compliance and deliver a better, more dignified experience for everyone who passes through.

Sova is committed to making airports as accessible as possible, Visit our Airport Inclusion Page to learn more about complying with FAA guidelines.