Ontario International Airport adopts Sunflower program to support those with hidden disabilities
(Ontario, California – June 15, 2023) – Ontario International Airport (ONT) is offering passengers
with non-visible disabilities the opportunity to travel with confidence.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program is a simple tool for passengers to voluntarily share that
they have a disability that might not be immediately apparent, and would need a little extra help, time
and understanding while at the airport. Under the program, travelers with a non-visible disability can
request a Sunflower lanyard at the Traveler’s Aid desk in either terminal or the ticket counter of any
participating airline. Program materials also can be mailed to travelers with a minimum three-week
notice prior to travel.
Travelers don’t need to have booked Special Assistance to request a lanyard. Staff, together with all
the stakeholders operating in at ONT, will be ready to support Sunflower wearers and their traveling
companions.
“At Ontario International, we are committed to ensuring access for all of our travelers and visitors, and
are proud to provide the Sunflower program for travelers who might need a helping hand while at the
airport,” said Atif Elkadi, chief executive officer for the Ontario International Airport Authority.
The Sunflower program is globally recognized for helping individuals with hidden disabilities
overcome barriers – physical and otherwise – that are often part of their everyday lives. One in seven
people – 1.3 billion worldwide – live with a disability, many of them not readily apparent. These
can include conditions that are neurological, cognitive and neurodevelopmental in nature, as well
as physical, visual and auditory disabilities. They also can include respiratory and chronic health
conditions such as arthritis and diabetes, chronic pain and sleep disorders.
The Sunflower lanyard is designed as a discreet way for airport staff to recognize travelers who might
need extra time and understanding. Since Sunflower’s launch in 2016, businesses and organizations
ranging from malls and retailers to colleges and universities to airports and public transit systems have
participated.
For more information on ONT’s Sunflower program, please visit: www.flyontario.com/SunflowerProgram
