For Immediate Release – July 5, 2023
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program Launched at Fort McMurray International Airport
YMM trains employees to better assist passengers with hidden disabilities
Fort McMurray, AB – More than ever before, passengers with hidden disabilities can travel with ease through the Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM). Thanks to YMM’s enrollment into the international Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, Sunflower wristbands, lanyards and pins are now available to anyone travelling through YMM at no cost. These indicators act as a simple tool to voluntarily share the passenger has a disability or condition that may not be immediately apparent – and that they may need a helping hand, understanding, or more time during their passenger journey.
There are hundreds of types of hidden disabilities. Globally, 1 in 7 people live with a disability – and 80% are invisible. Thousands of businesses ranging from retail, travel and tourism participate in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program – including 200+ airports globally.
“At YMM, we’re committed to offering our guests the most enjoyable passenger experience possible,” says Michael Sieger, VP, Air Service & Commercial Development of the Fort McMurray Airport Authority. “With the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program training, our employees and partners can better support passengers in their airport journey, while further enhancing YMM’s inclusive environment.”
Paul White, CEO of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, is happy to see the program expand, “We are thrilled to have YMM join the global Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. As the tenth Canadian airport to officially launch the Sunflower program, YMM has helped us cross an important regional milestone as we continue to grow support for people living with non-visible disabilities.”
Passengers travelling through YMM can find the free Sunflower items at the Information Desk, located on Arrivals (Level 1).
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About Fort McMurray International Airport | flyymm.com
Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) is owned and operated by the Fort McMurray Airport Authority (FMAA), connecting the World to the Wood Buffalo Region. FMAA is a community-based, non-share capital organization. YMM offers non-stop flights to four cities in Canada. The airport is a major economic driver for the region, with an economic output of over $354 million and supporting over 70 businesses on airport campus and approximately 900 jobs.
About Hidden Disabilities Sunflower| hdsunflower.com
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower enables individuals to discreetly indicate that they have a non-visible disability and may need additional assistance, understanding, or more time.
Since Hidden Disabilities Sunflower was established in the UK in 2016, it has been adopted globally by businesses and charities to support their colleagues and customers. The Sunflower is recognized across a broad range of sectors – ranging from retail, financial services, transport including over 200 airports, travel and tourism, education, government, as well as healthcare, emergency service and entertainment.