Victoria Airport Authority (VAA) is pleased to announce the launch of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program at Victoria International Airport (YYJ).
The Sunflower program offers individuals with a non-visible disability a discrete way of signalling to airport staff that may require additional support or a little more time or patience.
Elizabeth M. Brown, VAA President and CEO said:
“We are so pleased to bring the Sunflower program to YYJ and continue to demonstrate our commitment to making travel more accessible. Travel can be additionally stressful for a person with a disability, and this program will help guests know that our airport is a friendly and inclusive space for everyone.”
Invisible disabilities can come in many forms. They can be physical, mental or neurological and include, but not be limited to autism, ADHD, cognitive disabilities such as learning difficulties, dementia, mental health conditions, speech challenges and auditory and visual conditions. They can also include respiratory and chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, chronic pain and sleep disorders.
Clare Kumar, Regional Director of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, Canada said:
“We’re delighted to have Victoria International Airport as a member of the Sunflower program, helping domestic and international travellers with non-visible disabilities have a smoother travel experience”
Travellers at YYJ can receive a free and reusable Sunflower lanyard that they can wear throughout their journey that will discreetly indicate to airport staff the person may need extra support or a little extra time and patience. The lanyards are available at the Customer Service Desk in the Departures Check-In, from the Information Desk in Arrivals and are also included in our sensory resource kits.
For more information about this program and other accessibility services at YYJ, click here