To facilitate the smooth movement of passengers with invisible disabilities, Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) has launched a series of special services aimed at enhancing the travel experience for such persons at Delhi Airport on 15 November 2023.

By associating with the globally recognized Hidden Disabilities (HD) Sunflower initiative, DIAL has transformed Delhi Airport into a Sunflower Airport and empowers all passenger-facing partners through this programme with a globally developed framework..

Initiatives taken to make the journey of a person with HD pleasant:

DIAL initiative offers diverse merchandise like sunflower lanyards, pin badges, and wristbands.
These discreet but recognizable items allow passengers to signal the need for assistance from airport staff.
Sunflower merchandise is available for collection at the helpdesk and information counters located within the terminals.
By wearing a sunflower lanyard, pin, or wristband, persons with an invisible disability can easily and discreetly identify themselves and communicate their needs to airport staff, who will sympathetically approach them and provide necessary assistance.
Delhi airport has conducted extensive training for all its passenger-facing staff members on the nuances of hidden disabilities and how to approach a person wearing the sunflower symbol.
This will ensure that passengers are taken precautions throughout their journey.
According to Videh Kumar Jaipuriar, CEO, DIAL, the launch of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower initiative is in perfect sync with GMR's unwavering commitment to provide a seamless and comfortable travel experience for all passengers.
Travel can be challenging for individuals with invisible disabilities, and DIAL aims to create an environment that is sensitive, supportive and accommodating.
The implementation of the Sunflower Programme underlines Delhi Airport's dedication to embracing diversity and nurturing an all-inclusive environment.

What is an invisible disability?

An invisible disability is a physical, mental, or neurological condition that is not visible externally, yet may limit or challenge a person's movements, senses, or activities.
Unfortunately, the fact that these symptoms are invisible can lead to misunderstandings, misconceptions, and incorrect judgments.
The ADA (1990) (Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990) identifies a person with a disability as someone with a significant physical or mental impairment limiting major life activities, with a record of such impairment or being regarded as having such a disability (disability discrimination).
Invisible Disability Week is celebrated every year from 15 to 21 October to make people aware of invisible disabilities.