Punta Cana Airport First Airport in the Dominican Republic to Join the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program
Punta Cana, La Altagracia. — Punta Cana Airport (PUJ) announced its incorporation into the international Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, a global initiative that supports people with non-visible disabilities. This action reaffirms PUJ commitment to creating an environment where every passenger feels understood and supported throughout their airport experience.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program uses an internationally recognized identifier: the Sunflower Lanyard, a ribbon that allows individuals to discreetly indicate that they may need extra time, assistance, or understanding during airport processes. By wearing the lanyard, airport staff can provide guidance, clear communication, and access to quiet assistance areas, ensuring that the travel experience is comfortable and respectful for all.
With this initiative, Punta Cana Airport not only strengthens its commitment to accessibility and passenger experience but also takes an important step toward a more empathetic, inclusive, and human-centered airport environment, where every traveler can move through with confidence and peace of mind. This initiative also makes PUJ the first airport in the Dominican Republic to join the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program.
During the event, Lisbeth Cabrera, local Sunflower representative, highlighted that: “We are proud to welcome Punta Cana Airport to the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program. This step reinforces the airport’s commitment to a more inclusive, respectful, and accessible experience for all passengers, especially those with non-visible disabilities. Together, we continue building an environment where everyone can travel with greater confidence, understanding, and dignity.”
Likewise, Alberto Smith, Director of Landside and Cargo Operations at PUJ, stated: “At Punta Cana International Airport, we work to ensure that every passenger feels supported and understood from the moment they arrive at our facilities. Joining the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program represents an important step in strengthening a culture of empathy and mindful service within our operations. Our goal is for all people—regardless of their needs—to enjoy a safe, comfortable, and respectful travel experience.”
About Hidden Disabilities Sunflower
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a globally recognized symbol for non-visible disabilities. By wearing the Sunflower, individuals discreetly indicate that they may need additional support, patience, or understanding during their experience at the airport and in other environments.
About Punta Cana Airport (PUJ)
Inaugurated in 1983, Punta Cana Airport (PUJ) is the world’s first privately owned international commercial airport and the airport with the highest traffic and connectivity in the Dominican Republic and the Caribbean. It connects 81 international airports across 26 countries and serves approximately eight million passengers per year.
The airport features two runways, 41 boarding gates, 45 aircraft parking positions, and four VIP lounges. It also operates its own Recycling and Incineration Center, where approximately 60% of the waste generated by its operations is processed.
The airport has been recognized for eight consecutive years (2015–2023) as the “Best Airport by Size and Region” in the 5 to 15 million passengers category in Latin America and the Caribbean by the Airports Council International (ACI). It also holds Level 3 certification in the ACI Customer Experience Accreditation Program and a 4-star SKYTRAX rating, an international organization that evaluates and ranks airports worldwide based on service quality, operational efficiency, and passenger experience.
In addition, the airport has achieved Level 3 Airport Carbon Accreditation and has twice received the “Best Hygiene Measures by Region” certification from ACI, reaffirming its commitment to operational excellence, health safety, and passenger experience.
For more information, visit: puntacanainternationalairport.com
