It’s not surprising that the Portland Airport has some unconventional methods, especially when considering the city’s slogan, “Keep Portland Weird.” After all, the city is teeming with eclectic and creative individuals who’ve found several unique methods to express themselves. Interestingly, one of those methods is adorably precious and has proven to benefit travelers passing through on a layover or for a visit.
Portland Airport Has Unconventional Visitors
Aerophobia, or a fear of flying, is alarmingly common with estimates that it affects 1 in 10 people, and it’s no surprise that the quirky and kindhearted people of the Portland Airport have several programs to help calm nerves and make travelers feel supported and at ease. In 2023, the Portland Airport experimented around the holidays, inviting llamas to visit weary or anxious passengers.
Visits to the Portland Airport are Twice a Month
The llamas visit the terminals about twice a month, but only during the time of the year that’s “healthy for them,” says Allison Ferre, the media relations manager at the Portland Airport. Understandably, she calls the program “a uniquely PDX experience” and says: “It’s just pure joy.” As such, she happily reports no one has complained so far. In contrast, travelers have enjoyed the llamas and the Portland Airport has started announcing upcoming llama visits on their social media accounts.
The Llamas aren’t Far
The emotional support llamas come from a non-profit in Richfield, Washington, about a 40-minute drive from the Portland Airport. The non-profit is run by a mother and daughter, Lori and Shannon, and their website reads: “have found a mission in sharing the llama love with those who appreciate the enjoyment of Animal-Assisted Therapy.”
Spreading the Joy
The duo has been taking their lovable llamas and alpacas to visit seniors, those with special needs, and schools since 2007, expanding in 2011, after several wedding inquiries, to “Non-Profit, Mtn Peaks Therapy Llamas & Alpacas and their entertainment Classy Camelids, LLC.”
Causing a Common Fear
The fear of flying is common, but often, flying is the most time-effective method of travel. Purportedly, around 25 million adults in the U.S. are estimated to be impacted by Aerophobia. There are several causes, including:
- News or current events about crashes.
- Turbulence.
- Having a fear of heights.
- Focusing on illnesses spread on planes.
- Claustrophobia
Fear of Flying
Aerophobia is the most common among people between 17 and 34. Major milestones like having a baby or graduating often happen during this time in people’s lives, causing them to think about “jeopardizing” what they have. Interestingly, one can fly for years before developing the fear, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Benefits of ES Llamas and Other Animals
However, research has shown animals make wonderful resources for companionship, comfort, and relief from anxiety or stress.
Here are a few reasons an emotional service animal be advantageous, according to the KCC:
- They Provide Mental and Emotional Encouragement
- They Help You Produce Neurotransmitters
- They Calm Anxiety on Planes
- They give unconditional love
- Animal therapy supplements other forms of therapy
- They can help stabilize intense emotions and anxiety.
- They provide social support
The Portland Airport Shows Compassion
Although the llamas are popular, going viral almost every time they visit, the Portland Airport has implemented other practices to support anxious travelers. The Portland Airport partnered with DoveLewis, a dog therapy program that brings over 20 “highly trained” canine therapy teams throughout the airport. Moreover, passengers are encouraged to interact with the dogs, giving pats and hugs. Additionally, PDX offers passengers quiet spaces away from the hustle and bustle of the airport, when they feel overwhelmed.