GMR Hyderabad International Airport Unveils Sunflower Program to Improve Assistance for Travelers with Invisible Disabilities
In a significant step towards inclusivity, GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd. (GHIAL) announced the launch of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. This new initiative is designed to enhance the travel experience for passengers with non-visible disabilities and underscores GHIAL's commitment to creating an inclusive environment and providing seamless, socially responsible passenger services. Hidden disabilities are disabilities that aren’t immediately apparent, such as low vision, autism, dementia, intellectual disability or hearing loss. The Sunflower allows passengers with invisible disabilities to discreetly communicate their needs and request assistance through the use of a Sunflower lanyard. The lanyard is recognized worldwide and indicates that the person wearing the lanyard may require additional assistance, patience, or time. While the Sunflower will discreetly provide a visual signal to the airport staff, wearing a lanyard does not guarantee fast tracking through security or any service.
Hyderabad Airport ensures staff at all passenger interaction points, such as Information desks, check-in counters, security, immigration, customs checkpoints, retail outlets and boarding gates, are trained and Sunflower aware.
Launching the Sunflower, Mr. Pradeep Panicker, CEO-GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd said:
"The introduction of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower initiative at Hyderabad Airport reflects our commitment to ensuring a seamless and comfortable travel experience for all passengers. We recognize the challenges faced by individuals with hidden disabilities during travel, and our aim is to foster an eco-system that is understanding, supportive, diverse, and inclusive. This will pave the way for enhanced communication between passengers, Airport staff and aid in overall improved travel experience.”
Across the globe, the Sunflower lanyard is a well-known symbol for people with non-visible disabilities. It shows that the person wearing it might need extra help without having to explain why. Started in the UK in 2016, the lanyard is now used in over 280 airports and transport systems worldwide.
Passengers should contact their respective airlines and make them aware of any special assistance requirements (such as wheelchairs) they may have before their travel.
For more information about the Sunflower and the services offered for individuals with non-visible disabilities, please visit: GMR Hyderabad International Airport