(NewsNation) — Airports around the world have implemented a program designed to help travelers with nonvisible disabilities discreetly signal they may need additional assistance, patience or time during their journey.
The latest airport to join the initiative is Colorado’s Grand Junction Regional Airport, which recently implemented the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program.
Under the program, travelers wear green lanyards or bracelets featuring a sunflower logo. Trained airport employees recognize the symbol as an indication that a passenger may need extra support or guidance while navigating the airport.
What are sunflower bracelets or lanyards?
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program is designed to help people with conditions that may not be immediately apparent, including autism, anxiety, chronic illness and hearing loss.
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According to the organization, its goal is to create a travel experience in which people with nonvisible disabilities “are confident to travel independently, knowing that they will receive the support that they may need at every stage of their journey.”
The initiative is open to all travelers, with no eligibility requirements. However, wearing a sunflower lanyard or bracelet doesn’t provide priority access or expedited TSA security screening.
Which airports have the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program?
The program first launched at London Gatwick Airport in 2016 and has since expanded internationally.
More than 325 airports across 70 countries have included the initiative, with participating locations spanning Africa, Asia Pacific, the Caribbean, Europe, the Middle East, Latin America and North America.
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Several major airlines have also joined the network, including Air Canada, British Airways, Turkish Airlines and United Airlines.
Participating airlines have trained employees to recognize the sunflower symbol and provide support to passengers with nonapparent disabilities.
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