Sunflower strap
SEA is the first airport in the U.S. to launch a pilot program to provide invisible disability sunflower lanyards to passengers with invisible disabilities such as autism, PTSD and hearing impairments. First introduced at London’s Gatwick International Airport, the sunflower lanyard communicates that the passenger wearing it may need special assistance while traveling. A growing number of international airports are now accepting the lanyards.
Where to get the sunflower strap
Participation in the program is voluntary. Passengers can request a free Sunflower lanyard at the pre-security information desk between Checkpoint 3 and Checkpoint 4 (near Starbucks) and the post-security information desk in Concourse A (near Gate A5). Both locations can be found on the interactive map. This desk is staffed daily from 7 AM to 9 PM. If you are traveling outside of information desk hours, please ask for a lanyard from staff at Premium Checkpoint Lane 2 or 5.
Passengers should continue to coordinate with their airlines and TSA Cares for any pre-travel questions or accommodation arrangements.
Social Stories and Sensory Rooms
The Airport Social Story and Resource Guide has been created for people travelling through Southeast Asia amidst mask-wearing and physical distancing requirements. It is designed for autistic travellers to review and reiterate with family and carers before travelling, but can be used by anyone who finds it useful.
Sensory rooms offer a calming environment for those who feel overwhelmed, overstimulated or simply want to calm down during their airport journey. Sensory rooms are located at A-Gates STS Station, train level, in the long corridor near the elevators. Use the interactive map for step-by-step directions.
We love your feedback
Have you visited the SEA Sensory Room recently? Please take a moment to fill out our short survey and let us know what you thought. We hope you found this social story and resource guide useful. We look forward to hearing your feedback.
SEA Therapy Dogs
SEA is proud to work with several certified therapy dog teams through our Pet Partners program. Pet Partners volunteers and their animals are trained to provide a friendly face and a moment of relaxation in a busy airport environment.
Certified therapy dog Gracie with her owner Joanne.
Therapy dogs like Gracie provide a friendly face to travelers.
For more information about SEA’s volunteer programs, visit the Airport Volunteer homepage.