Enhancing Travel Experience for Persons with Hidden Disabilities
In a significant stride towards inclusivity, Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) – a GMR Airports Infrastructure Limited-led consortium, has introduced a range of special services aimed at enhancing the travel experience for individuals with hidden disabilities in India’s busiest Delhi Airport.
As a member of the global Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network, DIAL has transformed Delhi Airport into a Sunflower-friendly Airport, and trained all passenger-facing partners with a globally developed framework.
Under this initiative, DIAL has a variety of merchandise options, including Sunflower lanyards and pin badges. These discreet, yet identifiable items allow passengers to signal their need for assistance from airport staff. The Sunflower merchandise is available for collection at the Helpdesks and Information counters located within the terminals.
By donning the Sunflower lanyard/pin/wristband, individuals with non-visible disabilities can easily and discreetly identify themselves and make their needs known to the airport staff, who will empathetically approach them and provide the necessary help.
Delhi Airport has conducted comprehensive training for all its passenger-facing staff members on the nuances of the hidden disabilities and how to approach an individual wearing the Sunflower emblem. This will ensure that the passengers are dealt with care throughout their journey.
Mr Videh Kumar Jaipuriar, CEO-DIAL, a subsidiary of GMR Airports Infrastructure Limited, said:
“The introduction of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower initiative perfectly aligns with GMR’s unwavering commitment to providing a seamless and comfortable travel experience for all passengers. We acknowledge that travel can be challenging for individuals with hidden disabilities, and our goal is to create an environment that is sensitive, supportive, and accommodating,”
The implementation of the Sunflower Programme underscores Delhi Airport's dedication to embracing diversity and nurturing an all-inclusive atmosphere. By extending these specialised services, the airport aspires to empower passengers with hidden disabilities to travel with confidence, knowing that they have the necessary support at every step of their journey.
Learn more about Delhi Airport by visiting their website.