ANC offers several passenger amenities including an adult changing station, family room/nursery, pet relief area, a meditation room, and the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program. The latter is part of a national program for travelers who need additional support, given that navigating a busy airport can be stressful, especially when a disability or medical condition is not immediately visible.
Through this voluntary program, passengers who self-identify as needing extra assistance can receive a sunflower lanyard or wristband from airline ticket counters or the visitor information center. A discreet symbol, the sunflower lets airport staff, TSA personnel, and other service providers know that those travelers may need additional time, patience, or support without requiring them to explain their condition or answer intrusive questions. Non-visible disabilities and conditions may include anxiety, autism spectrum disorders, cognitive or sensory conditions, chronic illnesses, mobility challenges, or short-term recovery needs.
“Accessibility is at the heart of delivering world-class service at ANC and FAI [Fairbanks International Airport],” says Spear. “By implementing the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program at both of Alaska’s international airports, we are taking another step toward ensuring every traveler feels recognized, supported, and welcomed. We want passengers to know that whether their needs are visible or not, our teams and partners are here to provide care, compassion, and understanding for those who may need extra assistance.”
The airport is also equipped with WHILL autonomous wheelchairs, thanks to a partnership between NANA Management Services (NMS) and Alaska Airlines. Like a self-driving car requested on a ride-sharing app, WHILL has supplied wheelchairs since 2020 and now services twenty-six airports worldwide.
“Anchorage represents an important step in expanding access to autonomous mobility in North America,” says Shane Bogni, president of WHILL Autonomous Service, North America & EMEA. “Our goal is to give passengers more independence and confidence as they move through the airport.”
The service rolled into ANC in March. Users can request wheelchair assistance through Alaska Airlines at the time of booking, prior to arrival, or upon entering the terminal. At the NMS assistance kiosk in the terminal, NMS staff screen passengers for mobility needs and coordinate the service.
“This program is about dignity and independence in travel,” says NMS Vice President of Food, Facilities & Maintenance Clinton Lasley. “Whether a passenger is traveling with limited mobility, recovering from an injury, or simply needs assistance navigating a busy terminal, WHILL autonomous wheelchairs help travelers move at their own pace, with support from our trained team.”
