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Sunflower

More consideration for travellers with non-visible impairments

What is Sunflower?

A sunflower for more understanding

Around one in six people lives with a disability. A busy environment like an airport can quickly become a challenge for these people.

To make the stay more relaxed for everyone, Stuttgart Airport has been part of the international Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Programme since April 2025. The sunflower symbolises worldwide that a person has an invisible impairment - without having to talk about it or explain themselves.

This creates more understanding - and therefore a little more consideration in the hustle and bustle of everyday travelling.

How is Sunflower implemented at STR?

Our programme is aimed at people with non-visible impairments and comes into play at times when more time or support is needed. The aim is to enable more consideration and create an environment in which everyone feels safe and understood.

We also set a visible sign for inclusion at Stuttgart Airport: the green Sunflower ribbon with the sunflower symbol is available at several locations - at the passenger information desk in Terminal 3 on the departures level, at SAG Boarding Support and at the airport security desk in Terminal 1 West on the departures level. On request, our staff will hand out the tape free of charge and without further questions.

Our teams are trained to recognise the Sunflower symbol - also in the form of wristbands or badges, which are available via the official Sunflower website. Those who wear them can count on our understanding and support.

More about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower

FAQ about Sunflower

Who is the sunflower for?

The Sunflower programme is aimed at people with invisible impairments who need a little more time, consideration or patience in certain situations. The Sunflower makes this visible in a discreet way.

What are non-visible impairments?

Non-visible impairments are not recognisable from the outside. They can be temporary, situational or permanent - and affect very different areas: the nervous system, brain development, vision or hearing, physical resilience or the way stimuli are processed.

Some examples:

ADHD
asthma
dementia
dyslexia
migraine
Tourette syndrome
and many more

Do you have to show something to get a ribbon?

No. If you would like to have a Sunflower ribbon, you do not have to provide any proof or information about your own impairment. The ribbon can also be worn by relatives, friends or other supportive persons. This is because public awareness of the issue is also a key concern of the programme and its supporters - such as Stuttgart Airport.

What can people do if another person is wearing a sunflower?

Our employees are trained to recognise the sunflower symbol and react appropriately. But it also helps in everyday life if everyone knows the meaning of the sunflower.

Even small gestures such as patience, a smile or an offer of help can make a big difference - for an atmosphere in which everyone feels comfortable and welcome.

Do I have to return the tape?

No, the ribbon stays with the person. It can also be worn in other places that are part of the international Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Programme.