Dublin Airport has issued a reminder to passengers wearing the internationally recognised Sunflower lanyard, which helps those with hidden disabilities discreetly signal to staff that they may need extra time, patience or support while travelling
Sunflower lanyard, a symbol of people with invisible or hidden disabilities.
Dublin Airport has issued a timely reminder to passengers wearing a Sunflower lanyard as the busy summer travel season approaches.
The airport highlights that the internationally recognised Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard is available to assist passengers with non-visible disabilities who may require additional support while travelling. Aimed at those who would rather not disclose their condition or use the airport’s dedicated special assistance service, the lanyard subtly alerts staff that the wearer may need extra time, patience or understanding as they make their way through the terminal.
Dublin Airport joined the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network in 2024, with all frontline staff having received training to recognise the symbol.
The airport stated: “The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a globally recognised symbol that discreetly indicates a passenger has a hidden disability. Dublin Airport joined the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network in 2024.”, reports the Irish Mirror.
“All staff are trained to recognise the Sunflower symbol and provide support to passengers who wear it, offering extra help, greater understanding, or simply more time when needed.”
For passengers with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), Dublin Airport also provides its Important Flyer Lanyard or Wristband.
The airport explained: “Passengers with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) may find the airport environment challenging, particularly during security screening.
“To help make the journey more manageable, Dublin Airport offers the Important Flyer Lanyard or Wristband. This identifier discreetly signals to airport staff that the wearer may benefit from additional time, calm and clear communication.”
Passengers wishing to apply must complete the Important Flyer application form and provide either a letter from their GP or an AsIAm card confirming a diagnosis of autism or sensory processing disorder.
The service is currently only available to those with postal addresses in Ireland, including the North, and the lanyard or wristband cannot be collected at Dublin Airport.
Those holding an Important Flyer are also entitled to complimentary Fast Track security, which must be booked in advance, and is available for the holder and up to three travelling companions on the same day.
What is the Sunflower lanyard?
According to Hidden Disabilities Sunflower: “Some disabilities, conditions or chronic illnesses are not immediately obvious to others. For some people, this can make it hard to understand and believe that someone, with a ‘non-visible’ condition genuinely needs support.
“Some people question whether you have a disability because you don’t look ‘like you have a disability’.
“That is why we created the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower – to encourage inclusivity, acceptance and understanding. It is a simple tool for you to share that you have a hidden disability voluntarily.
“Simply by wearing the Sunflower, you’re just letting everyone know that you might need extra help, understanding, or just more time.”
Since its inception, the Sunflower scheme has been rolled out across a host of nations, including Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, Ireland, Latin America, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the UK, the UAE and the USA.
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