Thiruvananthapuram airport launches 'Sunflower project' to assist differently-abled flyers: How it helps

The Sunflower Project has been launched at the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport to assist differently-abled travellers. The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Project, which already operates at many international airports worldwide, including Dubai, has been launched for the first time at an airport in Kerala. Travellers with hidden disabilities, including autism, will get special assistance at the airport. 

Airport staff across various departments have received specialised training from experts for this. Differently abled travellers can obtain special sunflower lanyards from the airport information centre. These lanyards could be used upon arrival at other airports where the project is active. The Sunflower Project was launched as part of the initiative to make the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport accessible to people with disabilities.

How lanyards work
The lanyards are a discreet yet identifiable symbol that helps passengers with conditions such as autism signal their needs for help. They can be either worn as wristbands, badges or similar accessories. This will help airport staff identify those in need and provide timely, appropriate assistance throughout the flyer's journey. A comprehensive training programme for the same was also conducted for all staff who deal with passengers. In India, the initiative is also in place at the Delhi, Hyderabad and Bengaluru airports.