Curbside greeting and assistance 

YVR’s Guest Experience team offers assistance with baggage, directions, and accessibility needs through the Curbside Greeting Program. Support is available at all entry points, and passengers can arrange additional assistance in advance by contacting the Customer Call Centre: 604-207-7077, TTY: 604-207-7070 or by email at customercallcentre@yvr.ca.  

Discreet support along the way 

As passengers continue their journey, the Sunflower Program provides discreet support for those with hidden disabilities. By wearing a free Sunflower Lanyard, travellers signal to airport staff that they may need extra patience or assistance. These lanyards are available at Information Counters throughout the airport.   

Airport staff, trained in neurodiverse inclusion with guidance from organizations like the Pacific Autism Family Network (PAFN), are dedicated to ensuring a welcoming, supportive environment for all travellers, including those with neurodivergent needs. 

Support through security 

Navigating security can be particularly stressful for neurodivergent passengers. To provide extra assistance during this process, Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) has introduced Facilitators, helping those who need additional support as they pass through security screening.  

Paper Planes Café: inclusive employment and experience 

For a relaxing break, passengers can visit the Paper Planes Café, a collaborative project with PAFN, located in the domestic arrivals area. This inclusive coffee bar, staffed by individuals from the neurodiverse community, offers a variety of coffee, hot drinks, and snacks. Not only does the café provide a peaceful stop, but it also supports inclusive training and employment at YVR. 

Quiet areas and reflective spaces 

As travellers continue on their journey through the airport, YVR has several quiet areas and reflective spaces to help manage sensory overload. These include a Quiet Area (Gate D67) and a yoga space. A multi-faith prayer room is also available and welcomes all visitors wanting to take a moment for quiet contemplation amid what can feel like the seasonal travel rush.  

Enhancing independence and reassurance  

To help passengers prepare for their airport experience, YVR, in collaboration with the PAFN and Canucks Autism Network (CAN), offers practical guides designed to support autistic passengers and their families. These resources ensure a more welcoming, accessible, and comfortable journey for all. 

A commitment to accessibility 

YVR’s commitment to accessibility extends beyond resources and amenities. The Airport Authority is continuously improving to ensure that all passengers, regardless of ability, have a smooth and stress-free travel experience.  

From arrival to departure, YVR is dedicated to creating an inclusive, welcoming environment for neurodivergent passengers, reflecting our commitment to accessibility at every step of the journey. 

For more information on YVR’s Accessibility initiatives visit our website at yvr.ca. 

Paper Planes Café takes flight at Vancouver International Airport, marking a significant milestone in our commitment to accessibility and community engagement.

This café is not just another coffee bar; it is a testament to our dedication to creating a more inclusive and accessible travel environment. Situated in the Domestic Arrivals area on Level 2, this café represents a significant step forward in our mission to serve our people and the community. Its doors will be open for travellers from 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. seven days a week.

The uniqueness of this coffee bar lies in its team, which is made up of individuals with a diverse range of abilities from the neurodiverse community. These individuals will be at the helm, brewing coffee, and serving quick snacks to the millions of passengers and guests who traverse YVR's terminal, as well as the thousands of employees who call the airport home.

The primary goal of Paper Planes Café is to empower its staff by providing them with the skills and experience they need to succeed in the workforce. Through this café, YVR and PAFN will offer up to six-months of training covering essential skills and expertise typical of the restaurant and service industry. This includes barista talents, food preparation, and customer service, all of which will prepare employees for a successful career in the hospitality field. Following the training, staff will also be supported in their job search in the community.

The innovative, impactful, and important partnership between YVR and PAFN began in 2021 with a shared vision to make travel accessible and enjoyable for everyone. As part of YVR's three-year accessibility plan, we are actively working towards creating a welcoming, inclusive, and accessible travel experience for people of all abilities.

Paper Planes Café at YVR is not just a coffee shop; it is a beacon of hope, inclusivity, and empowerment. It is a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together to make travel accessible for all, regardless of ability. So, the next time you find yourself at YVR, be sure to stop by the Paper Planes Café for a coffee and a taste of what true inclusivity feels like – because every journey, whether by air or in life, should be one that all can embark upon.