Confidence, Autonomy, and Dignity

A new lounge for passengers with reduced mobility was inaugurated at Findel Airport on Tuesday. The facility aims to offer a more comfortable experience and support tailored to the needs of affected travellers ahead of their flights.[1]

The inauguration was attended by Minister for Mobility Yuriko Backes, Minister for Family Affairs Max Hahn, and Alexander Flassak, Chief Executive Officer of lux-Airport. The project was realised in collaboration with stakeholders from Luxembourg's aviation sector and social partners.[1]

Backes emphasised that modern mobility must be inclusive and leave no one behind. The new infrastructure demonstrates how accessibility should be realised in concrete terms, allowing everyone to begin their trip with "confidence, autonomy, and dignity." Inclusion, she said, is not a matter of choice but a "fundamental principle of mobility policy."[1]

Hahn stressed that every improvement in accessibility strengthens the autonomy of the people concerned and benefits society as a whole. He pointed out that lux-Airport is participating in initiatives such as Bewosst and the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme, which aim to raise awareness of both visible and invisible disabilities.[1]

According to Flassak, the new facility is not only intended for people with reduced mobility but also for unaccompanied minors. Airport staff have received specialised training to provide better support for passengers with invisible disabilities.[1]

The Sunflower programme is simple: passengers with hidden disabilities, such as autism, dementia, or anxiety disorders, can choose to wear a sunflower lanyard as a discreet signal to staff that they may need additional assistance. No announcement, no explanation required. The lanyard does the asking.[1]