Islamabad Airport to facilitate persons with disabilities
Islamabad International Airport has introduced Pakistan’s first Sunflower
Lanyard Programme, an initiative aimed at improving accessibility and providing a more supportive travel experience for passengers with non-visible disabilities and individuals who may require additional assistance.
The programme is designed to help airport staff identify passengers whose disabilities or conditions may not be immediately apparent, enabling them to offer greater understanding, patience and appropriate support throughout the airport journey.
According to information released about the initiative, Islamabad International Airport is the first and only airport in Pakistan to introduce the facility, marking a significant development in the country’s efforts to promote inclusive aviation services.
Recognising the needs of passengers with hidden disabilities
The Sunflower Lanyard is an internationally recognised symbol that discreetly indicates that a person may have a hidden disability or condition and could benefit from additional assistance. These may include autism, sensory processing difficulties and other conditions that can make navigating busy public spaces challenging.
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Airports can present particular difficulties for affected passengers because of crowded terminals, loud announcements, queues and complex travel procedures. The programme seeks to encourage staff to respond with greater awareness and provide assistance when needed, helping passengers and their families navigate these environments with greater confidence.
The initiative also aims to reduce the pressure on individuals to repeatedly explain their circumstances when seeking support.
A vision for more inclusive airport services
The introduction of the programme has been linked to the efforts of Aftab Gilani, Manager and Operating Officer at Islamabad International Airport, whose vision and commitment to improving passenger services have helped advance the initiative.
The programme also reflects institutional support from senior defence leadership, including Secretary of Defence Lieutenant General (Retd.) Muhammad Ali, Hilal-i-Imtiaz (Military), along with other senior officials.
The initiative highlights the role of leadership in translating the principles of accessibility and public welfare into practical improvements in service delivery. It also reinforces the importance of recognising the diverse needs of passengers as part of the airport’s wider operational responsibilities.
Staff awareness key to effective implementation
The programme’s effectiveness will depend on staff awareness, appropriate training and consistent implementation. Airport personnel must be able to recognise the lanyard and understand how to respond respectfully to passengers who may need additional time, guidance or assistance.
Greater public awareness of hidden disabilities will also be important in fostering a more understanding environment for affected passengers and their families.
The initiative represents a step towards making Pakistan’s aviation services more responsive to people with diverse needs. It also underscores the importance of incorporating accessibility into everyday passenger services rather than treating it as a separate consideration.
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By introducing the Sunflower Lanyard Programme, Islamabad International Airport is signalling a commitment to a more inclusive approach to air travel, where passengers who require additional support can be treated with dignity and consideration.
Ultimately, the quality of an airport is measured not only by its infrastructure and operational performance, but also by its ability to serve all passengers fairly. The programme offers an opportunity to strengthen that commitment and help make air travel a more reassuring experience for people with hidden disabilities.
Source: Minute Mirror