T’puram: The city airport introduced the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower to enhance the travel experience of passengers with non-visible disabilities, as part of an initiative to embrace diversity and foster an inclusive airport environment.Under the programme, Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TIAL) introduced Sunflower Lanyards—a discreet yet easily identifiable symbol that allows passengers with non-visible disabilities to signal their need for assistance. Passengers wearing the Sunflower lanyard can discreetly communicate their need for additional support, enabling airport staff to approach them empathetically and provide appropriate assistance throughout their journey, said a press release. Sunflower lanyards and related merchandize are available free of cost at helpdesks and information counters across the terminal buildings.A TIAL spokesperson said, “We recognize that air travel can be particularly challenging for individuals with hidden disabilities, and our objective is to create an environment that is sensitive, supportive and accommodating.”Aligned with the globally recognized Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme, TIAL was designated as a Sunflower Airport. TNN
