We are delighted that Albany International Airport is aiming to make air travel a little easier for people with hidden disabilities. Travelers with brain injuries, asthma, diabetes or any number of other hidden disabilities that may not be outwardly noticeable to airport staff, will be able to get some extra help at Albany International Airport by wearing the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower.

“It’s about raising awareness for inclusion of people, in this case with hidden disabilities,” Airport CEO Philip Calderone said of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard Program.

Employees of the airport, airlines, concessions and Transportation Security Administration were trained in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program setup.

When an airport representative encounters someone wearing a program lanyard, they are trained to ask if they need any assistance, and to be patient if the person takes extra time to respond and or does not respond.