Roanoke-Blacksburg Airport Launches Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program
To enhance support for travelers with non-visible disabilities and conditions, Roanoke-Blacksburg Airport (ROA) is partnering with the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program.
The Sunflower is an internationally recognized program that enables individuals with non-visible disabilities to voluntarily and discretely indicate that they may need extra support, understanding, or more time while navigating the airport environment.
Examples of non-visible disabilities are autism, mental health conditions, sight or hearing loss, and chronic pain.
Travelers can request a complimentary Sunflower lanyard, bracelet or pin. Supplies are available at the information booth and the Police office on the second floor (staffed 24 hours a day). Participants do not need to disclose their disability.
Airport Commission, airline, and other tenant employees across the airport, along with Ambassador volunteers, have received training on how to best support program participants.
“The Sunflower program aligns closely with our commitment to enhancing the passenger experience and ensuring the airport is a welcoming place for everyone. We’re pleased to partner with the Sunflower program and hopefully help reduce some of the travel-related stress for our passengers with hidden disabilities,” said Mike Stewart, executive director of the Roanoke Regional Airport Commission.
The Sunflower first started in 2016 at London Gatwick Airport and is now available at airports around the globe.
The Sunflower program does not replace TSA and airline support services, nor does it provide special passenger accommodation. Passengers should still engage TSA Cares for support through the security checkpoint and request assistance in advance from their airline for wheelchairs or other required assistance at ROA, connecting or destination airports, and onboard their flights.
About Roanoke-Blacksburg Airport
The Roanoke-Blacksburg Airport is the gateway for travelers visiting Virginia’s Blue Ridge and the New River Valley and provides an easy getaway to global destinations. ROA welcomes more than 750,000 passengers annually through its terminal, with via four airlines (Allegiant, American Airlines, Delta Airlines and United Airlines) offering daily nonstop service to major hub cities, including Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, New York LaGuardia, Philadelphia, and Washington Dulles, as well as weekly nonstop flights to Florida’s Orlando-Sanford, Sarasota Bradenton, and St. Pete-Clearwater.
Media contact:
Alexa Briehl
540-676-7466
