Nashville International Airport (BNA) is set to enhance its commitment to passenger well-being by launching the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program on July 1st. This initiative is an extension of the established Bna Cares Program, designed to provide discreet support and improve the travel experience for individuals with disabilities that may not be immediately apparent.
Airport officials have emphasized that the Sunflower Program is specifically tailored to assist passengers who live with conditions such as autism, ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), learning disabilities, anxiety disorders, chronic illnesses, and other less visible disabilities. Recognizing that these conditions can present unique challenges in navigating the airport environment, BNA is taking proactive steps to create a more inclusive and accessible travel experience for everyone.
The core of the Sunflower Program involves the use of a simple yet effective tool: the sunflower lanyard. Passengers with cognitive, neurodevelopmental, visual, or auditory disorders can choose to wear these lanyards as a subtle way to indicate to airport staff that they may require additional support or understanding. This discreet signal allows staff to offer assistance without requiring passengers to explicitly disclose the details of their disability, respecting their privacy and comfort.
Stacey Nickens, Vice President of Corporate Communications and Marketing, highlighted the significance of the program, stating, “By offering discreet support to travelers with hidden disabilities, we’re ensuring a smooth and positive experience for everyone who walks through our doors.” This statement underscores BNA’s dedication to inclusivity and passenger-centric service as central tenets of the BNA Cares program.
Passengers who would benefit from additional support can easily obtain a sunflower lanyard upon arrival at Nashville International Airport. These lanyards are available at the Information Center, conveniently located on level one of the terminal. Importantly, there is no requirement for passengers to disclose their specific disability to receive a lanyard, reflecting the program’s emphasis on trust and respect.
BNA has ensured that its airport staff are well-prepared to recognize and respond appropriately to passengers wearing sunflower lanyards. Training has been provided to equip staff members with the skills and awareness necessary to offer practical assistance, which may include:
- Providing clear and concise instructions to minimize confusion and anxiety.
- Offering additional time for passengers during various airport processes, such as check-in, TSA security screenings, and boarding procedures, acknowledging that these steps can be more challenging for some individuals.
- Assisting with navigation through the airport terminal, helping passengers find their way and reducing stress related to unfamiliar surroundings.
- Providing access to a quiet space where passengers can relax and decompress if they feel overwhelmed or need a moment of respite from the busy airport environment.
A significant advantage of the Sunflower Program is its continuity and recognition across multiple locations. Once passengers receive a sunflower lanyard at BNA, they can retain it for future travels. The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program is a global initiative, and the lanyards are recognized at an increasing number of airports worldwide. This means that travelers can benefit from consistent support wherever the program is implemented, making their journeys smoother and more predictable.
“The Sunflower Program launch at BNA is a small gesture with a big impact, and it reflects our commitment to inclusivity,” Nickens reiterated. This initiative, as part of the broader BNA Cares program, demonstrates Nashville International Airport’s ongoing efforts to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all travelers, regardless of their individual needs. By focusing on discreet assistance and staff training, BNA is setting a positive example for airport accessibility and passenger care within the aviation industry.
