San Francisco International Airport Expands Accessibility Efforts Through Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Partnership
(IN SHORT) San Francisco International Airport has partnered with the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower organization to introduce the Sunflower Lanyard program, a global initiative supporting travelers with non-visible disabilities. The green sunflower-branded lanyard enables passengers to discreetly signal that they may need additional assistance when navigating the airport. Recognized at more than 340 airports and by 31 airlines worldwide, the program helps foster greater understanding and accessibility for individuals with conditions such as anxiety, autism, chronic pain, hearing or vision loss, and other non-apparent disabilities. Through this partnership, SFO strengthens its commitment to inclusive, accessible air travel for all passengers.
(PRESS RELEASE) SAN FRANCISCO, 2026-Mar-3 — /Travel PR News/ — San Francisco International Airport has announced a new partnership with Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, bringing the globally recognized Sunflower Lanyard program to the airport. The initiative is designed to better support passengers with non-visible disabilities by offering a discreet way to signal that they may require additional assistance while traveling.
The green lanyard, decorated with bright sunflower symbols, allows individuals — or members of their travel group — to quietly indicate that they are living with a hidden disability. These conditions may not be immediately apparent but can significantly affect how a person navigates crowded, noisy, or unfamiliar spaces such as airports.
Airport Director Mike Nakornkhet emphasized that participation in the program reinforces SFO’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion. By aligning with an international network of airports and airlines already participating in the initiative, SFO aims to make the travel experience more comfortable and responsive for passengers who may need extra time, patience, or understanding.
Hidden disabilities can include a broad spectrum of conditions, from anxiety and autism to hearing or vision loss, respiratory illnesses, chronic fatigue, learning differences, dementia, and chronic pain. The program does not require medical documentation; rather, it operates on trust and awareness, encouraging airport staff and partners to recognize the lanyard as a cue for empathy and support.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program currently operates at more than 340 airports across 70 countries and is recognized by 31 airlines worldwide. With this partnership, SFO joins a growing global movement aimed at fostering more inclusive air travel environments.
Additional information about the program and how to participate is available at flysfo.com/sunflower-program.
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SOURCE: San Francisco International Airport
