CALGARY — WestJet has joined the globally recognized Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, furthering its efforts to create a more accessible and inclusive travel experience for all passengers.
The program enables travellers with non-visible disabilities to discreetly indicate they may need additional support – such as extra time, patience or assistance – by wearing a Sunflower lanyard or other branded accessories like pins or wristbands. These identifiers are recognised by WestJet staff both at airports and onboard.
“Through our participation in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, we are proud to further our commitment to providing convenient and accessible services that meet the unique needs of our guests,” said Jacqui McGilliivray, WestJet Executive Vice-President and Chief People Officer. “The Sunflower lanyard provides a visual cue to help those with non-visible disabilities communicate their needs and navigate their environment with confidence, significantly improving their overall guest experience and making travel more accessible for them.”
The Sunflower symbol is widely recognised as a discreet way for individuals to indicate they have an invisible disability. These can include neurological, cognitive and neurodevelopmental conditions, as well as physical, visual, auditory and sensory challenges. Chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes and chronic pain also fall under this category.
“We are delighted to welcome WestJet to the global Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network,” said Paul White, CEO of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. “It is wonderful to see how WestJet have committed time and energy to implement the Sunflower training to ensure that travelling Sunflower wearers are recognised by their staff to receive the additional help, understanding and kindness they may need.”
Sunflower lanyards are now available upon request at WestJet check-in counters across Canada. Guests are encouraged to reuse their lanyards on future flights or wherever the Sunflower is recognised to ensure continued support throughout their journey.
Earlier this year, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ) announced its participation in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, while Air Canada implemented the program back in January 2024.
