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) today announced the launch of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program. This program, a new initiative designed to enhance the travel experience for passengers with hidden disabilities underscores GHIAL's commitment to creating an inclusive environment and providing seamless, socially responsible passenger services. Hidden disabilities are disabilities that are invisible to an onlooker, such as low vision, autism, dementia, intellectual disability or hearing loss.. The Sunflower Program allows passengers with hidden 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 lanyard will discreetly provide a visual signal to the airport staff, wearing a lanyard does not guarantee fast tracking through security or any service.

This facility information is available on website and passengers can choose to share the travel details prior through the form available on the website or can avail it on the day of travel from the Airport’s Information desk staff, who will assist with the digital form.

Hyderabad Airport is ensuring that staff at all passenger interaction points such as Information desks, check-in counters,  security, immigration, customs checkpoints, retail outlets and at boarding gates are trained and aware.

Launching the Sunflower Program, 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 hidden 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 200 airports and transport systems around the world.

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 Programme and the services offered for individuals with hidden disabilities, please visit: https://www.hyderabad.aero/hidden-disabilities-sunflower.aspx