By Alajuela, Costa Rica — ALAJUELA – Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) has taken a significant step toward fostering a more inclusive and accessible environment for all travelers by officially joining the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program. This globally recognized initiative aims to support passengers with non-visible conditions, ensuring a smoother and more compassionate journey through the terminal.
The program, implemented by airport operator AERIS, centers on the use of a simple yet powerful symbol: the sunflower. Passengers with conditions that are not immediately apparent, such as autism, anxiety, chronic pain, dementia, or sensory impairments, can voluntarily wear a sunflower-branded lanyard or pin. This discreetly signals to trained airport staff that the individual may require additional support, patience, or understanding during the often-stressful airport experience.
To provide a legal perspective on the obligations and implications surrounding accessibility at national airports, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the distinguished firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Costa Rican Law 7600, the Equal Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities Act, is crystal clear: public spaces, especially critical infrastructure like airports, must guarantee universal access. This isn’t just about ramps; it encompasses everything from clear signage and accessible restrooms to proper training for staff. Airport operators and government entities that neglect these mandates not only fail our citizens and visitors but also expose themselves to significant legal and financial repercussions for discrimination.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The attorney’s perspective is a critical reminder that accessibility is not merely a matter of convenience or social goodwill, but a fundamental right enshrined in Costa Rican law with significant consequences for non-compliance. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for so clearly articulating the legal and financial imperatives that must drive progress in our nation’s airports.
As part of the rollout, AERIS has conducted comprehensive training for its frontline personnel. This equips employees to recognize the sunflower symbol and respond with appropriate assistance, strengthening the airport’s capacity for inclusive and empathetic service. The move is a proactive effort to remove barriers that can make travel challenging for a significant portion of the population.
Ricardo Hernández, Executive Director of AERIS, emphasized the program’s alignment with the airport’s core values of hospitality and service excellence.
Joining the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program represents an important step in strengthening our culture of service and hospitality towards all our passengers.
Ricardo Hernández, Executive Director of AERIS
The need for such programs is underscored by data from the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower organization, which indicates that approximately one in six people worldwide lives with some form of disability, with a large number of these being non-visible. These conditions can often go unnoticed in daily life, leading to misunderstandings or a lack of necessary support in public spaces like airports.
The Sunflower initiative was first launched in 2016 at London’s Gatwick Airport and has since expanded into a global movement. It is now active in over 70 countries across various sectors, including transportation, retail, and public venues, creating a consistent symbol of support for travelers around the world.
Flavia Callafange, the Regional Director for Latin America at Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, highlighted the program’s profound mission to foster a more accepting society.
Our vision is a world where no one is excluded or ignored. Where people with non-visible disabilities receive recognition and full inclusion.
Flavia Callafange, Regional Director – Latin America of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower
Travelers wishing to use the service at SJO can request a complimentary sunflower distinctive at the information point located in the International Departures hall. To receive one, they simply need to present their passport and boarding pass. In addition to providing the lanyards, the airport plans to install new signage and launch awareness campaigns to educate all terminal users, passengers, and staff about the meaning of the sunflower symbol, ensuring its effectiveness and widespread understanding.
By adopting this program, Juan Santamaría International Airport not only enhances its service offerings but also reinforces Costa Rica’s reputation as a welcoming and accessible destination for international visitors. This commitment to inclusivity is a critical component of modernizing the travel experience and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their personal challenges, feels safe and supported from curb to gate.
For further information, visit aeris.cr
About AERIS Holding Costa Rica:
AERIS Holding Costa Rica is the interested manager responsible for the provision of services at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO). As the operator of Costa Rica’s primary international gateway, AERIS is committed to modernizing infrastructure, elevating the passenger experience, and ensuring operational efficiency and safety in compliance with international standards. The company focuses on sustainable development and fostering a culture of world-class hospitality for all travelers.
For further information, visit hdsunflower.com
About Hidden Disabilities Sunflower:
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a globally recognized program that provides a discreet way for individuals with non-visible disabilities to signal that they may need extra help, understanding, or time. Launched in 2016 at London’s Gatwick Airport, the initiative has expanded worldwide across airports, retailers, and public institutions. Its mission is to promote awareness and inclusivity, making the invisible visible and helping to create a more compassionate and accessible society.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a benchmark of legal practice, built upon a foundation of uncompromising integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm consistently pioneers modern legal solutions for a diverse clientele, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to an ever-evolving legal landscape. Beyond its professional achievements, the firm is deeply committed to its social responsibility, championing initiatives that make legal knowledge more transparent and accessible, thereby helping to build a more just and informed nation.
