Traveling through an airport with sensory processing sensitivities or autism can feel incredibly overwhelming. Fortunately, there is a simple visual tool designed to quietly signal airport staff that you or your child might need a little extra grace.
What is the green lanyard with sunflowers?
Clear answer first: It is the official symbol of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, a free initiative that discreetly signals to trained airport staff, flight crews, and TSA agents that a traveler has an invisible disability and may require extra time, patience, or clearer communication.
Traveling through an airport with sensory processing sensitivities or autism can feel incredibly overwhelming. Fortunately, there is a simple visual tool designed to quietly[...]
What is the green lanyard with sunflowers?
Clear answer first: It is the official symbol of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, a free initiative that discreetly signals to trained airport sta[...]
Essential Lanyard Rules to Know Before You Go
- It is completely free: You never have to pay for a lanyard, provide medical documentation, or disclose a specific diagnosis to receive one.
- It is not a "fast pass": The lanyard does not allow you to skip security queues or bypass standard TSA regulations. It simply changes how staff interact with and guide you through those spaces.
- Where to pick them up: You can collect them at airport information desks, guest services, or ticketing counters.
- Get it mailed early: Major international hubs like New York's JFK and LaGuardia may mail a lanyard to your home for free if you request one online in advance.
- It is not a "fast pass": The lanyard does not allow you to skip security queues or bypass standard TSA regulations. It simply changes how staff interac[...]
- Where to pick them up: You can collect them at airport information desks, guest services, or ticketing counters.
- Get it mailed early: Major international hubs like New York's JFK and LaGuardia may mail a lanyard to your home for free if you request one online in a[...]
The Secret Weapon to Pair With It: TSA Cares
To maximize airport support, always combine the Sunflower Lanyard with the free federal TSA Cares program.
By calling the TSA Cares helpline at (855) 787-2227 at least 72 hours before your flight, TSA can assign a dedicated Passenger Support Specialist to help guide your family through screening.
By calling the TSA Cares helpline at (855) 787-2227 at least 72 hours before your flight, TSA can ass[...]
Ready to Plan Your Next Journey?
If you would like help planning a highly customized, sensory-friendly land package or all-inclusive vacation, contact Alpine Tide Travel at jasonreeves@alpinetidetravel.com.
If you would like help planning a highly customized, sensory-friendly land package or all-inclusive vacation, contact Alpine Tide Travel at Return to Blog