Hidden Disabilities – A member’s story

I had used my Sunflower lanyard in New Zealand and Melbourne about a couple of years ago and did not get much response.

We took a Rhine River Cruise from Budapest in August 2023. The flights are very long from Australia, the planes were very full and uncomfortable, so I was very tired.
On arrival in Budapest – the queues were very long in the arrival’s hall. I thought why not try the lanyard and within 5 minutes was taken to the front of the queue to passport control.
Leaving to come home from Amsterdam – once recognised fast tracked through security.

Perth – the airport volunteers recognised the lanyard and was through security and passport control very quickly.

I would really recommend people with hidden disabilities having one. It just makes life easier and not having to stand in long queues. One cannot guarantee that it will work every time, but worth wearing the Sunflower lanyard at every airport for both arrivals and departures.

See web link for more information. https://hdsunflower.com/au/shop.html

Damian, who worked for Qantas, has advised this important airport travel information.

1. Firstly, all airlines have different rules regarding travelling with electric wheelchairs/scooters or more importantly the batteries. You must check these rules with the airline before you fly.
2. Secondly, if you require specialised day to day equipment i.e. toilet seat riser, you are allowed a free baggage allowance for these items with some airlines. Qantas is one such company that offers this service, but it is not highly publicised. Again, check if this is available before you fly.

And lastly, check if the airline supports the Companion Card, as your carer’s airfare may be subsidised.