December 3, 2025
Munich Airport and Lufthansa are now part of the global Sunflower program, which was launched by Hidden Disabilities Sunflower at Gatwick Airport in the UK in 2016.
The aim of the program is to give people with invisible disabilities, such as mental or neurological disorders, greater visibility, understanding, and support in public spaces through a simple but significant symbol—a yellow sunflower on a green background. The program is based on three principles: voluntariness, trust, and respect. It focuses on breaking down barriers and promoting a more inclusive society, even in busy areas like Munich Airport.
Wearing the green lanyard with a Sunflower is a globally recognized symbol. It helps passengers indicate their specific needs, such as requesting more time or additional assistance. Airport staff are informed and aware of this symbol, enabling them to offer help and provide support to these passengers as needed.
The Sunflower Program is already being implemented by over 320 airports in 70 countries and 23 airlines worldwide.
Thomas Hoff Andersson, Chief Operating Officer at Munich Airport, said: "It is important that we promote inclusion and accessibility at our airport. This service is valuable for travellers with invisible disabilities. I am convinced that it will significantly contribute to a positive travel experience at our airport."
Marcus Schnabel, Lufthansa's Vice President of Ground Operations at the Munich Hub, said: "By joining the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, we are improving the travel experience for affected passengers. We are focusing even more consistently on our customers and getting our employees more aware of the unseen. We are doing this by teaching our staff on the ground and in the air about the non-visible disabilities and how to deal with it."
Paul White, CEO, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, said: "We are extremely pleased to welcome Munich Airport and Lufthansa to the global Sunflower network. Munich Airport is an important hub for international and domestic travel. Becoming part of the Sunflower Program shows the airport’s and the airline's commitment to supporting passengers with non-visible disabilities. The Sunflower is a useful tool for travellers to indicate that they may require extra support. For staff, it makes it easier to identify who needs more understanding and kindness."
The Sunflower lanyard is available at Munich Airport in Terminal 1 at the main information desk and at the Mobility Service Point. In Terminal 2, it can be picked up at the information desks in the arrivals and departures areas and at the Mobility Service Point. Lufthansa passengers can pick up the lanyard at Counter 416 in the Terminal 2 check-in hall. Passengers with special needs can contact Munich Airport employees and Lufthansa staff at any time, regardless of whether they are wearing a Sunflower identification badge.
Further information on the Sunflower Initiative and the Hidden Disabilities Association is available via the following link: https://hdsunflower.com/uk/insights/post/for-people-with-non-visible-disabilities
