Abu Dhabi Airports and Etihad Airways have launched the globally recognised Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme at Zayed International Airport (AUH) and onboard Etihad Airways flights to support all passengers, particularly those with non-visible disabilities.

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme provides discreet support for passengers with conditions like autism, chronic pain, or anxiety, whereby they can signal to staff their requirements for additional assistance or compassion.

Passengers can pick up their complimentary Sunflower lanyards at the two dedicated special assistance desks at the pre-check-in area of AUH.

"At Abu Dhabi Airports, we are dedicated to providing a seamless and inclusive travel experience for every passenger," said Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Airports.

"The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme is a natural extension of this commitment, empowering passengers with non-visible disabilities to discreetly communicate their needs and receive the support they deserve throughout their journey at Zayed International Airport.

“This means our staff are now even better equipped to assist passengers who may require a little extra time, understanding, or assistance, ensuring a smoother and more positive experience for everyone."

To ensure the programme's success, AUH and Etihad Airways have ensured that frontline teams from the airport, its stakeholders and business partners have undergone specialised training to better understand the needs of passengers with hidden disabilities and provide appropriate assistance.

Trained staff members wear a Sunflower pin to convey that they are supporters of the initiative.

Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Airways, said: “As part of our vision to be the airline everyone wants to fly, we want to ensure we are catering to the needs of all our guests and making the experience as smooth and seamless as possible for everyone.

“We’re honoured to join the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme to educate our teams on the wide range of non-visible disabilities and affirm our reputation for exceptional hospitality can be enjoyed by all.”

Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination (ZHO) is serving as the exclusive manufacturer and production centre for the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyards in the GCC region.

The organisation said its involvement highlights how each lanyard used at Zayed International Airport is a symbol of inclusivity, hard work, dedication, and is made with the skill of its members of determination who craft them at dedicated vocational rehabilitation workshops.

Abdulla Abdulalee Abdulla Al Humaidan, Secretary-General at Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination, said: "Everyone has the right to travel and explore the world on their own terms. To ensure that every individual can fully enjoy their journey, we must make travel accessible and inclusive for all.

“The Sunflower lanyard is a simple yet powerful tool that helps create a more supportive environment for travellers with non-visible conditions, ensuring that everyone can travel with confidence and ease." – TradeArabia News Service