Making Invisible Disabilities Visible: Lufthansa Joins the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

Lufthansa has joined the global Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program as of 1 December, marking a significant step toward improving the travel experience for passengers with non-visible disabilities. The initiative enables affected individuals to discreetly signal that they may require more time, patience or assistance. The recognizable emblem – a yellow sunflower on a green background – is typically worn as a lanyard and is already used in many busy public environments such as airports, train stations, supermarkets, theatres and universities. Within the Lufthansa Group, Austrian Airlines, Eurowings, SWISS and now Lufthansa have adopted the program, with all remaining airlines expected to participate by the end of 2026.

Supporting over one billion people with invisible disabilities

An estimated 1.3 billion people worldwide live with some form of disability, and up to 80 percent of them – more than one billion individuals – have an invisible disability such as a chronic illness, mental health condition or sensory impairment. Air travel can pose particular challenges for these passengers. The Sunflower symbol offers a discreet way to indicate additional needs, while giving travellers full autonomy over whether they wish to use the program. Lufthansa has recently trained its ground and cabin crews to recognize the symbol and to provide respectful, attentive support.

Implementation at Frankfurt and Munich airports

The Sunflower Program is being rolled out at Lufthansa’s two home airports. Munich is implementing the initiative immediately; Frankfurt will follow in January 2026. From these dates, Sunflower lanyards will be available at airport information desks and special services counters, as well as at the Lufthansa special services counters in both cities. Passengers with non-visible disabilities may also seek assistance at any time without wearing a Sunflower lanyard. The symbol does not replace escort or wheelchair services, nor does it grant priority at check-in, security or boarding. Instead, the focus is on raising awareness and fostering empathy throughout the passenger journey.

A broader commitment to accessible travel

Across the Lufthansa Group, multiple initiatives are underway to enhance accessibility. In November, Lufthansa hosted its first Accessibility Customer Advisory Committee at its Frankfurt headquarters. The committee comprises members with reduced mobility, visual and hearing impairments, cognitive disabilities and other accessibility needs. Their insights will help refine and expand the Group’s services, ensuring more inclusive travel experiences for passengers with both visible and invisible disabilities.

Image Credit: © Lufthansa Group