Vasil Levski Sofia Airport, Bulgaria, joins the global initiative Hidden Disabilities Sunflower
Vasil Levski Sofia Airport has joined the global Sunflower network to support individuals with non-visible disabilities. The airport is introducing a new service standard by ensuring calm, understanding, and barrier-free travel for people with non-visible disabilities. Sofia's airport is the first in Bulgaria and joins more than 325 airports worldwide that are members of the initiative.
Jesus Caballero, CEO of SOF Connect, said:
“We are proud to be part of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network and thus reaffirm our ambition to become a 5-star regional hub that provides accessible travel for all.”
Paul White, CEO, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, said:
“We are extremely excited by Sofia Airport's announcement that it has become the first airport in Bulgaria to join the global Sunflower network to support its passengers and staff who have non-visible disabilities. The airport is leading the way by embracing the Sunflower training to ensure that Sunflower wearers feel seen and acknowledged, demonstrating a clear commitment to disability inclusion and creating a welcoming environment for all.”
The Sunflower program uses distinctive green badges or pins featuring a sunflower as a discreet symbol of non-visible disabilities, including but not limited to autism, dementia, and anxiety disorders. When an airport staff member sees this symbol, they know the passenger may need extra time and patience, clearer instructions, or assistance during security screening and while navigating the airport.
To ensure the highest level of support, Vasil Levski Sofia Airport is joining Hidden Disabilities Sunflower in partnership with the foundation of “Autism Today,” which focuses on creating specialised centres that provide high-quality social services for children and young people with autism in Bulgaria. Experts from “Autism Today” conducted specialised in-person training sessions to ensure that every airport employee can approach passengers with visible and non-visible disabilities with knowledge, understanding, and empathy.
Sunflower badges, wristbands, and pins are available to all passengers with non-visible disabilities. Travellers can receive them upon request at the Security checkpoints at Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, which are marked with the symbol.
As part of the new Terminal 3 build project, SOF Connect plans to create a Sensory Room – a calm space designed to provide passengers with non-visible disabilities with a restful, comfortable environment.
Learn more about Vasil Levski Sofia Airport by visiting its website: sofia-airport.eu