Changi Airport launches new initiatives to better support passengers with invisible disabilities

Passengers with invisible disabilities can travel more comfortably using a customisable step-by-step airport guide and get help from trained staff

Changi Airport Group (CAG) has launched three new initiatives to better support persons with invisible disabilities, such as autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, and dementia. Aimed at creating a more stress-free and inclusive travel experience for these passengers, the initiatives include a customisable step-by-step airport guide, being alert to special identifying lanyards, as well as having a pool of staff trained in identifying them, so passengers can get help more easily and discreetly. The initiatives were developed by CAG in consultation with special needs schools and organisations.

Passengers with invisible disabilities can familiarise themselves with airport processes using the Changi Airport Social Story to reduce anxiety when travelling.

The Changi Airport Social Story is an initiative jointly developed with experienced educators from Rainbow Centre Training and Consultancy (RCTC) to help reduce the stress of unfamiliar situations such as travelling for persons with invisible disabilities.

Comprising pictures and short descriptions, a social story is a common tool used by caregivers to familiarise persons with invisible disabilities with the various processes before they reach their destination. The step-by-step guide outlines the entire airport journey from check-in to boarding in a way that is easy to understand. Passengers and caregivers can go through the processes using the pictures in the social story during their pre-flight preparation. This downloadable file allows for customisation to suit each passenger’s journey and can be easily accessed on Changi Airport’s website or be printed for physical use.

Photo credit: Land Transport Authority (Left), The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower (Right)

Passengers may choose to wear invisible disabilities lanyards at the airport as a discreet way of telling others that they may need more support or time.

Passengers who prefer a more discreet way of indicating their invisible disabilities may choose to carry the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard[1] or the Land Transport Authority’s “May I Have a Seat Please” lanyard^[2]. Airport staff have been trained to identify these lanyards and to come forward to offer additional support, such as allowing more time for these passengers to complete a particular procedure or guiding them through airport processes.

Further information can be found on the Changi Airport website here.