Each and every traveller is unique, and so are their needs and requirements. To help all those who work at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport better serve passengers, we’ve partnered with Hidden Disabilities Sunflower to bring its globally recognized Sunflower Lanyard program to YWG.
Adorned with yellow sunflowers, the green lanyards help people with invisible disabilities, such as autism, ADHD, chronic pain, dementia, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, brain injuries, low vision, hearing loss, and anxiety disorders, among others, discreetly indicate they may need a little more help or time when travelling through YWG. Staff in all areas of the airport experience have been provided information on what to do if a person wearing a Sunflower Lanyard or other Sunflower-branded item approaches them.
“We’re constantly working to further enhance accessibility at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport and provide a more inclusive environment to meet the diverse needs of our community,” said Kirk Goodlet, Winnipeg Airports Authority’s Director of Facilitation and Product Development. “The Sunflower Lanyard program is a great addition to the supports we already offer and will help us better serve all travellers and visitors.”
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Sunflower Lanyards can be picked up at YWG for free at the Information Booth, located on the Arrivals Level next to Door 3, or the Valet & Away booth on the Departures Level near the top of the escalators. Travellers can keep their Sunflower Lanyard for use throughout their trip or the next time they board a plane, as more than 160 airports worldwide recognize the program.
“We are delighted to welcome Winnipeg Richardson International Airport to the global Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network,” said Paul White, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower CEO. “We live in such a transient world that is facilitated by aviation, it is important that passengers with invisible disabilities can fly when and where they want to. The airport environment can be difficult, and so airport staff are now equipped with the visual tool, the Sunflower, to identify who may need a little more time and are ready to ask how they can help.”
Travellers who require additional accessibility assistance should still contact their airline at least 48 hours before their flight to notify them of their needs and make arrangements.
To learn about other initiatives to support travellers and visitors at YWG, check out the Accessibility section of WAA.ca.
