Officials at the Myrtle Beach International Airport are launching a new customer service initiative that they hope will make travel more accessible for passengers with hidden disabilities.
Beginning today, the Myrtle Beach International Airport has announced its participation in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program. First launched in the United Kingdom in 2016, the program has since expanded to 170 airports and is globally recognized by 3 airlines and 20 countries.
The program provides a discreet way for travelers with a hidden disability to self-identify, alerting airport personnel that they may require additional assistance or patience throughout their travel journey. Individuals wishing to utilize the program can request a sunflower lanyard at one of the two information booths in the terminal (pre-security at baggage claim and post-security near Nacho Hippo and Gate A2).
"We understand that challenges exist when traveling with disabilities, which is why we're proud to launch this new initiative, to better support a greater number of travelers," said Judi Olmstead, Assistant Director of Airports. "Hidden disabilities are not visually apparent, making it difficult for airport staff to identify travelers who may require special assistance. The sunflower lanyards are a great way for staff to now be able to identify and provide support to a group of people in need that may have otherwise been overlooked without visible cues of a disability."
Travelers should be aware that the Sunflower lanyard program does not authorize special privileges to the wearer. The program is only intended to signal to others that additional assistance or patience may be required. Travelers should continue to coordinate with their airline and/or TSA Cares (1-855-787-2227) for pre-travel questions and special accommodation arrangements.
For more information, please visit https://hiddendisabilitiesstore.com/us/.
The Myrtle Beach International Airport is the gateway to Myrtle Beach, SC, the Grand Strand and the Hammock Coast. The Myrtle Beach International Airport is owned by Horry County and operated by the Department of Airports. MYR is served by Allegiant, American, Avelo, Breeze, Delta, Frontier, Porter, Southwest, Spirit, Sun Country, and United Airlines.
