WestJet has launched its participation in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, which allows guests with non-visible disabilities to discreetly signal that they may require more assistance while travelling, including extra time, patience and support.

“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 VP 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 globally recognized program uses the Sunflower symbol to help travellers make their needs known. Guests can choose to wear the Sunflower lanyard, or other Sunflower branded products such as a pin or wristband, both in airports and on WestJet flights to indicate to WestJet employees that they may have a specific need or require additional assistance.

“Non-visible disabilities can be neurological, cognitive and neurodevelopmental as well as physical, visual, auditory and including sensory and processing difficulties,” says Paul White, CEO of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. “They can also include respiratory, heart, rare diseases and chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes and chronic pain.

“It is wonderful to see how WestJet have committed time and energy to implement the Sunflower training to ensure that travelling Sunflower wearers are recognized 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 also encouraged to reuse their Sunflower lanyards on future flights or wherever the Sunflower is recognized and helps them receive the assistance they need.

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