Halifax International Airport Authority (HIAA) has announced three new traveler accessibility programs at Halifax Stanfield International Airport (CYHZ). The airport has launched a Halifax outpost of the Sunflower Program, an initiative designed to aid passengers with hidden disabilities that provides travelers with a complimentary sunflower lanyard or pin to discreetly request accommodation from airport staff. The airport will also provide access to Aira, an app providing on-demand, remote visual interpreters for blind and low-vision travelers as well as Hearing Loops, a wireless sound system designed to work with hearing aids and cochlear implants that eliminates background noise and provides clearer announcements to travelers with hearing challenges. CYHZ, which became the first facility in Nova Scotia to achieve the Rick Hansen Foundation’s Gold Accessibility Rating, also provides travelers with curbside assistance, barrier-free washrooms, braille signage, automatic doors, familiarization tours, an Autism Aviators program and therapy dogs. The airport plans to introduce more accessibility measures by 2026.
“Our goal at Halifax Stanfield is to provide a seamless and accessible experience for every traveller.The introduction of these new accessibility programs and services marks a significant step forward in achieving that goal,” said HIAA president and CEO Joyce Carter. “We are excited to offer more innovative solutions to travellers and airport visitors, further demonstrating our commitment to creating a barrier-free airport environment.”
“The Hearing Loops at Halifax Stanfield has significantly improved my travel experience,” added community member Dwight Habermehl. “By eliminating background noise and delivering clear audio directly into my hearing aid, it has made interactions at check-in counters and information desks much easier. This technology ensures that I don’t miss any important information, making my airport visit much more enjoyable.”
