Passengers with hidden disabilities travelling from the UK to Spain are being urged to plan ahead following a major change at Spanish airports.
The well-known Sunflower Lanyard scheme, which originated in the UK to discreetly signal hidden disabilities and offer passengers additional assistance when travelling, is no longer recognised at airports operated by Aena in Spain.
Instead, passengers who require assistance are now asked to apply for Aena’s Invisible Disability Badge before travelling. This badge allows travellers access to dedicated security lanes (where available) and assisted passage through general security, helping to make the airport experience more manageable and less stressful.
Aena has confirmed the badge will be valid for single use on the day of travel, and only one badge per travel party is required. It is currently accepted at the following airports: Alicante, Barcelona, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Ibiza, Lanzarote, Málaga, Menorca, Palma, Reus, and Tenerife.
A Change That Matters to Travellers
The Sunflower Lanyard was first introduced in UK airports in 2016 as a discreet way for passengers with hidden disabilities to indicate that they may need additional support. It has since become widely recognised across the world.
This latest update in Spain marks a significant shift in accessibility travel arrangements, and local travel businesses are working to keep customers informed.
A spokesperson for Swindon Travel Hub said: “The Sunflower Lanyard has been a trusted source of reassurance for so many of our guests travelling with hidden disabilities. This change in Spain highlights just how important it is for travellers to prepare ahead of their journey.
“Our team is always on hand to help guide customers through this new process and ensure their trip is as smooth and stress-free as possible.”
How to Request the Badge
Travellers can apply for the Aena Invisible Disability Badge by completing an online form, providing flight details, and accepting the relevant terms. The badge will then be emailed to them and can be printed or shown on a mobile device at the airport.
Apply here: http://spr.ly/6188AZXWK
Swindon Travel Hub is encouraging anyone travelling to Spanish airports with hidden disabilities to request the badge well in advance of their departure date.
