Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is delighted to announce that Pensacola International Airport (PNS) has joined the Sunflower program, a global program dedicated to supporting individuals with non-visible disabilities. From today, someone who voluntarily wears the Sunflower can discreetly indicate they may need extra time, understanding, or assistance while navigating the airport.
Empowering individuals with non-apparent disabilities
The Sunflower is a subtle but powerful symbol that indicates the wearer has a non-visible disability, condition or chronic illness and may need extra time, understanding, or assistance while navigating the airport. Employees and partners at PNS have undergone official Sunflower training to support individuals who voluntarily wear the Sunflower symbol in the form of lanyards or badges.
Matt Coughlin, Executive Director of Pensacola International Airport, shares PNS’s commitment to accessible travel, saying:
“We are committed to creating a welcoming and accessible travel experience for all passengers. By adopting the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, we’re helping to ensure travellers with non-visible conditions feel seen, supported, and empowered when travelling through our airport.”
Starting today, passengers with non-visible disabilities can pick up a complimentary Sunflower lanyard at the airport's Information Desk.
A commitment to an inclusive future
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, launched in the UK in 2016, has grown into a worldwide symbol of accessibility and inclusion. With participation from over 330 airports and 22 airlines globally, the Sunflower is transforming sectors such as retail, financial services, transportation, education, healthcare, and tourism.
Paul White, CEO of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, highlights the significance of PNS’s launch of the Sunflower noting:
“We’re thrilled to see Pensacola International Airport join the global Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network. By recognizing the needs of individuals with non-visible disabilities, PNS is taking a meaningful step toward inclusive travel. The Sunflower lanyard empowers people to navigate the airport with dignity and confidence, knowing that support is available when they need it.”
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower now operates in countries worldwide, including Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, Ireland, Latin America, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Mauritius, the UAE, the UK, and the USA. Each organisation that joins the program contributes to a more inclusive world by empowering people with non-visible disabilities and supporting meaningful change. For more information on how the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is making travel accessible for all, visit Sunflower airports and airlines around the world.
About Pensacola International Airport
Pensacola International Airport (PNS) is committed to delivering a welcoming and inclusive travel experience for all passengers. Serving as a gateway to one of the most beautiful coastal regions in the world, PNS is dedicated to accessibility, customer care, and community engagement. Visit PNS website to find out more.