CIRA joins Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program

Posted on June 18, 2021
By wearing the sunflower lanyard, trained airport staff will recognize the individual wearing the lanyard may need additional support, help, or more time during their travel experience. (Facebook/Central Illinois Regional Airport)

 

By Neil Doyle

BLOOMINGTON – A local airport is now offering a customer service program designed to assist travelers and visitors with hidden disabilities.

Central Illinois Regional Airport Deputy Director Fran Strebing spoke with WJBC’s Scott Miller.

“The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, you wear this lanyard and it just kind of helps you as you go through the process,” said Strebing. “You don’t get to board early or do any of those things, you still have to go through security, but it’s just a signal for everyone to provide you a little extra assistance as you travel.”

By wearing the sunflower lanyard, trained airport staff will recognize the individual wearing the lanyard may need additional support, help, or more time during their travel experience.

Hidden disabilities can include but are not limited to autism, anxiety disorders, epilepsy, learning disabilities, and PTSD.

More information about the the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard program can be found here.

Neil Doyle can be reached at [email protected]

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