Punta Cana Airport, the first airport in the Dominican Republic to incorporate the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program

Carolina Álvarez
3 Min Read
La Altagracia. — Punta Cana Airport (PUJ) announced its incorporation into the international Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, a global initiative that supports people with non-visible disabilities. This action reaffirms PUJ’s commitment to generating an environment where every passenger can feel understood and supported during their journey through the airport. The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme uses an internationally recognized symbol: the Sunflower Lanyard, a ribbon that allows people to discreetly indicate that they may need more time, help, or understanding during airport processes. By wearing the lanyard, airport staff can offer guidance, clear communication, and access to quiet assistance spaces, ensuring that the travel experience is comfortable and respectful for everyone. With this initiative, Punta Cana Airport not only reinforces its commitment to accessibility and the passenger experience, but also takes an important step towards a more empathetic, inclusive, and human airport environment, where every traveler can transit with confidence and tranquility. In turn, this PUJ initiative makes it the first airport in the country to join the Hidden Disabilities program Sunflower.
You can also read: Punta Cana Airport is recognized as the best of 2026
During the event, Lisbeth Cabrera, local representative of Sunflower, highlighted that “We are proud to welcome the Punta Cana Airport to the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program. This step reinforces the airport’s commitment to a more inclusive, respectful, and accessible experience for all passengers, especially those with non-visible disabilities. Together, we continue to build an environment where every person can travel with greater confidence, understanding, and dignity.” Likewise, Alberto Smith, Director of Landside and Cargo Operations at PUJ, assured that “At Punta Cana Airport we work to ensure that every passenger feels accompanied and understood from the moment they arrive at our facilities. The incorporation into the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program represents an important step in strengthening a culture of empathy and conscious attention within our operations. Our goal is that all people, regardless of their needs, can have a safe, comfortable and respectful travel experience.” By implementing this program, the airport seeks to identify passengers who require additional assistance in a respectful and discreet manner; optimize the travel experience, ensuring more flexible times and processes; and promote an inclusive environment, where empathy and understanding are part of every interaction with the passenger.
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