In a pioneering initiative aimed at making air travel more inclusive, Islamabad International Airport has introduced special facilities for passengers with invisible disabilities, such as mental health conditions and neurodevelopmental disorders.
This initiative, known as the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, a global initiative that provides support and awareness for individuals with non-visible disabilities.
This development marks the first time any airport in Pakistan has launched such a support system. The move, led by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), aligns with global efforts to create more accessible travel experiences and underscores growing awareness in Pakistan about mental health needs in high-stress environments like airports.
“Islamabad International Airport is honored to provide special facilities to passengers with mental disorders,” the CAA announced in an official statement this week.
What is the Sunflower Ribbon program? 🌻
The Sunflower Ribbon is an internationally recognized symbol used to identify individuals who have invisible disabilities, such as autism spectrum disorders, mental health conditions, or other psychological challenges. Wearing this ribbon discreetly signals to airport staff that the passenger may need additional care or support, without the need for verbal disclosure.
Passengers who wear the ribbon are provided with preferential treatment at every counter, ensuring a more comfortable and less stressful airport experience.
What does this mean for passengers?
The introduction of the Sunflower Ribbon at Islamabad International Airport offers tangible benefits to passengers traveling with invisible disabilities:
- ✅ Fast-tracked assistance at all service counters
- ✅ Personalized support throughout the airport journey
- ✅ Reduced wait times and smoother check-in and boarding processes
- ✅ Increased sensitivity from trained airport personnel
According to Aftab Gilani, Chief Operating Officer and Airport Manager, individuals are issued a Sunflower Ribbon upon arrival at the airport. “Those wearing the ribbon receive priority services at all counters for quicker assistance,” he confirmed.
Pakistan’s Disability landscape
While the introduction of the Sunflower Ribbon system is a promising sign of progress, challenges remain. According to Human Rights Watch, the number of people living with disabilities in Pakistan is estimated to be between 3.3 million and 27 million, reflecting a lack of precise national data.
To address these issues, Pakistan has enacted the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, designed to safeguard and promote the rights of individuals with physical and mental disabilities. The government has also implemented key policies, including the National Policy for Persons with Disabilities (2002) and the National Plan of Action for Persons with Disabilities (2006).
Multiple institutions are actively working to enhance the quality of life for people with disabilities. Organizations such as the National Council for the Rehabilitation of Disabled Persons (NCRDP), various provincial councils, and disability-focused NGOs have been instrumental in driving advocacy, awareness, and systemic change.
The CAA’s new program at Islamabad Airport complements these efforts and reflects a broader national commitment to accessibility and inclusion in public spaces.