Photo Credit: Amanda Sopel

By Adam Berls/Sam Bennison

Prince George Airport

YXS adopts Sunflower Program

Dec 8, 2023 | 1:37 PM

PRINCE GEORGE— Passengers travelling out of the Prince George Airport have access to the globally recognized Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program. By wearing a sunflower landyard it allows passengers to share that they have a disability or condition that might not be immediately apparent, and may need a little extra help, time and understanding while onsite.

“The Prince George Airport Authority (PGAA) is always looking at ways to expand our customer service and accessibility programs, this was an easy yes for us when approached by the Sunflower Program organizers” says PGAA President and CEO, Gordon Duke. “If wearing a Sunflower lanyard helps one child, adult or senior with their travel experience, it is worth having this program in our terminal.”

You can request a free Sunflower landyard at check in counters, security desk or the Information Booth at the airport. Amanda Sopel, a local mother, in Prince George has a son with autism. She is thankful for the change remarking on it’s importance.

“Travelling can be incredibly stressful, overstimulating, and inaccessible for individuals like my children,” says Amanda. “Anything that can help create environments and spaces that are inclusive of individuals with diverse needs and sensory profiles are desperately needed in all communities and public facilities. Thank you to the Airport Authority for prioritizing accessibility and inclusion and bringing this much needed program to our local airport.”

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The Sunflower program has helped people with hidden disabilities overcome barriers, that are often part of their everyday lives. One in six people or 1.3 billion worldwide, live with a disability and most are not readily apparent. Hidden disabilities are conditions that can be nuerological, cognitive and neurodevelopmental in nature but also physical, visual and auditory disabilities. They can also include respiratory and chronic health conditions such as arthritis and diabetes, chronic pain and sleep disorders.

“The Prince George Airport Authority (PGAA) is always looking at ways to expand our customer service and accessibility programs, this was an easy yes for us when approached by the Sunflower Program organizers” says PGAA President and CEO, Gordon Duke. “If wearing a Sunflower lanyard helps one child, adult or senior with their travel experience, it is worth having this program in our terminal.”’

As more airports adopt the program air travel can become more accessible for everyone, whether your flying into Vancouver, Calgary, Winnipeg, or Toronto.