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Pensacola International Airport Launches the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program

Pensacola International Airport Launches the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program

Pensacola International Airport (PNS) is proud to announce the launch of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, a global initiative designed to support travelers living with non-visible disabilities. Beginning June 2, 2025, passengers at PNS can voluntarily participate in the program by wearing a Sunflower lanyard, discreetly indicating they may need additional time, understanding, or support while navigating the airport.

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program originated at London’s Gatwick Airport in 2016 and has since expanded to thousands of airports, transportation hubs, retail outlets, sports venues, and organizations worldwide. Pensacola International Airport is honored to be among the growing list of inclusive airports implementing this meaningful initiative.

“We are committed to creating a welcoming and accessible travel experience for all passengers,” said Matt Coughlin, Executive Director of Pensacola International Airport. “By adopting the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, we’re helping to ensure travelers with non-visible conditions feel seen, supported, and empowered when traveling through our airport.”

Non-visible disabilities can include conditions such as autism, chronic pain, anxiety, sight or hearing loss, and other neurological or physical challenges that aren’t immediately apparent. The Sunflower lanyard serves as a subtle but recognizable symbol to airport staff, signaling that the wearer may benefit from a little extra patience, assistance, or communication.

Participating passengers can pick up a complimentary lanyard at the airport’s Information Desk beginning June 2. PNS employees and partners have been trained on how to recognize the lanyard and provide compassionate, respectful support tailored to the needs of individuals wearing it.

We’re thrilled to see Pensacola International Airport join the global Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network,” said Paul White, CEO of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. “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 is a global program supporting individuals with non-visible disabilities, conditions, and neurodivergence. Since its inception in the UK in 2016, the Sunflower program has expanded its reach worldwide, working with organizations across a diverse range of sectors, including retail, financial services, transportation (with over 330 airports and 22 airlines), travel and tourism, education, healthcare, emergency services, and entertainment.

As a privately held multinational company headquartered in the UK, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower operates in numerous countries, including Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, Ireland, Latin America, Luxembourg, Poland, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Mauritius, the UAE, the UK, and the USA.

For more information, visit hdsunflower.com.