Airport accommodates unseen disabilities
Fredericton facility signs onto program to support passengers contending with challenges
Air travel can be a stressful experience for just about anyone, but there are those out there who struggle with disabilities or obstacles that aren’t readily apparent but make it even more challenging.
That’s why the Fredericton International Airport is now participating in a program focusing on supporting those passengers who need some extra help, time or other forms of support.
The airport, in a news release issued Thursday, announced it has adopted the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program to support passengers with invisible or hidden disabilities.
Patrons in need of additional assistance can wear a Sunflower lanyard as a discreet means to signal to staff that they could do with some extra support, assistance or time when travelling through the airport, the release said.
“Everyone is welcome at our airport,” Fredericton International Airport Authority president and CEO Johanne Gallant said in the release, noting the transport facility is always keen on anything that can offer an inclusive environment and remove barriers.
“We are continuously working alongside our community partners to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges many people with disabilities face - and the opportunities for us to help,” said airport authority public relations and marketing manager Kate O’Rourke.
People with such “invisible disabilities” as autism, chronic pain, epilepsy, low vision, hearing loss, dementia, anxiety disorders and brain injuries, among others, can benefit from the Sunflower program.
Participation is voluntary, the airport said, noting that anyone who so chooses can inform airport staff discreetly of their needs, and they can pick up a Sunflower lanyard from the commissionaires office, located in the Fredericton terminal between arrivals and departures, on the day they’re travelling.
“The lanyard helps airport workers know that a traveller may need some extra time or assistance, but it does not allow passengers to bypass screening or receive expedited check-in service,” the release said.
The Fredericton Independent can be reached at ftonindependent@gmail.com.
Great news!