March 20, 2024—Passengers at Blue Grass Airport can now enjoy the benefits of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program. By wearing a Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard, provided complimentary by the airport, individuals can voluntarily share they have a non-visible disability or condition that may cause them to need a helping hand, understanding or a little more time throughout their travel process.
Globally, one in six people live with a disability. Due to this growing number, the idea for the program was born in 2016 at London Gatwick Airport in England. The group designed a lanyard with sunflowers on a green background to reflect the ideas of confidence, growth, strength, happiness and positivity. Travelers can choose to wear a Sunflower lanyard to make their disability visible to those around them.
“Traveling has the potential to be a stressful experience for anyone, especially someone who may be facing a disability or condition that could impact their travel experience,” said Eric Frankl, president and CEO of Blue Grass Airport. “By making Sunflower lanyards available to Blue Grass Airport passengers, our efforts will be worthwhile if we positively impact just one individual’s travel experience.”
Blue Grass Airport has facilitated Sunflower program awareness initiatives amongst employees and on-property partners that interact with airport passengers and visitors. Sunflower lanyards are available in a freestanding display in front of Blue Grass Airport’s TSA Security Checkpoint, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are interested in learning more about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, visit https://hdsunflower.com/