Grand Junction Airport to Launch Sunflower Program
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program helps travelers with non-visible conditions request extra support at Grand Junction Regional Airport.
Updated on Nov. 10, 2026 in Special Needs
Grand Junction Regional Airport will implement the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program on Veterans Day, November 11, 2026. Travelers with non-visible conditions such as autism, anxiety, chronic illness, or hearing loss can wear a sunflower lanyard or bracelet to signal they may need extra support or time.
Why it matters
The airport is launching the program on Veterans Day as a show of support for veterans who live with unique, often invisible challenges from their service. The initiative gives travelers a discreet way to ask for assistance without disclosing personal health details.
The lanyards and bracelets are available at the airport administration office on the third floor of the terminal, and participation requires no eligibility. The sunflower symbol does not provide priority access or expedited TSA screening.
The players
Grand Junction Regional Airport
The Grand Junction Regional Airport serves travelers in Grand Junction, Colorado, and is the host of the new Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program.
ARC Mesa County
ARC Mesa County is a local advocacy organization in Mesa County, Colorado, whose executive director expressed support for the initiative.
The details
Travelers wear green lanyards or bracelets decorated with a sunflower logo, and trained airport employees recognize the symbol and offer additional assistance, patience, or guidance. The ARC Mesa County Executive Director expressed support for the initiative.
Timeline
Veterans Day, November 11, 2026: Grand Junction Regional Airport launches the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program.
Roadmap
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program gives non-visible disabilities a standard visual cue that airport staff can recognize across participating airports. Grand Junction's adoption extends that approach to a regional airport serving Western Colorado.
Travelers with non-visible conditions in Grand Junction can pick up a sunflower lanyard or bracelet at the airport administration office on the third floor of the terminal. The lanyard signals a need for patience or guidance but does not speed up security screening.
The takeaway
Travelers who may need extra time or support can request a sunflower lanyard before departure, which is free and requires no documentation. Carrying one can make a stressful airport trip easier for both traveler and staff.
Further reading
Explore more special needs resources for families and travelers in Grand Junction.
