JFKIAT, the operator of Terminal 4 at John F. Kennedy International Airport, has partnered with the U.K. based Sunflower Lanyard Scheme to offer customers traveling through the terminal a discreet way to alert employees that they may require additional assistance, support or time. T4 is the first airport terminal in the Northeast to offer these symbolic lanyards for customers with hidden disabilities, providing vital assistance to the passengers that walk through its doors each year who need additional assistance while traveling. The lanyards are available upon request from the T4 website.
The lanyard, which includes a simple sunflower image on a green background, was first introduced at Gatwick Airport in 2016 and since then, over two million lanyards have been provided to businesses and individuals worldwide.
“At T4, we are always looking for ways to better serve our passengers, and we are proud to be the first air terminal in the Northeast to participate in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard Scheme,” said Roel Huinink, President and CEO of JFKIAT. “Through this partnership, we are excited to expand our accessibility services and help to make our customers’ journey as seamless and comfortable as possible.”
"We are thrilled to partner with T4 on this growing initiative to offer our lanyards for the first time in the Northeast US," said Paul White, CEO of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard Scheme. "We believe this system will create a more comfortable and positive airport experience for people who have disabilities that might not be visible."
As one of the world’s most modern and efficient airport terminals, T4 works hard to foster an accessible terminal for all passengers. In addition to partnering with the Sunflower Lanyard Scheme, the terminal also previously became the first airport terminal to offer Aira Access, providing passengers who are blind or have low vision with instant access to enhanced visual information and real-time service to navigate the terminal. T4 was also the first terminal in the NYC area to offer an arrivals accessibility meet and greet program for people with hidden disabilities. Upon request and pre-approved customs vetting, customers are met at the gate by a T4 employee, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officer and their airline representative and expedited through Customs screening. Additionally, T4 was also the first airport terminal to offer Jetweels’ non-metallic, lightweight and ergonomic seat-equipped wheelchairs to improve the travel experience for passengers who need wheelchair assistance.
