Akron-Canton Airport (CAK) runs two genuinely distinctive accessibility programs: the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, which lets travelers with non-visible disabilities discreetly signal that they may need extra time or help, and a Sensory Room in the expanded concourse for travelers who need a calm space before boarding. Both are free, and both are confirmed by the airport. This guide covers those programs plus TSA Cares, elevators, accessible restrooms, and how wheelchair assistance works at CAK.
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program
CAK participates in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program. Travelers with non-visible disabilities can pick up a free lanyard, pin, or bracelet at the Visitor Information Center or an airline ticket counter, or request one through the airport’s website ahead of travel. Wearing a Sunflower item discreetly signals to staff that you may need extra time, patience, or assistance, without requiring you to explain your condition. One honest caveat from the airport: wearing the Sunflower does not guarantee fast-track through security. For traveling with children who may benefit from the Sunflower too, see our CAK family and kids guide, which covers the airport’s Sensory Room as well.
Reserved parking sign showing the wheelchair accessibility symbol (illustrative photo). Photo: Joshua Brown, Pexels License, via Pexels.
Sensory Room Before Gate 5
The Sensory Room sits in the expanded concourse just before Gate 5. It offers items to lessen sensory overload for travelers with sensory needs, and it was modernized in 2025 with sponsorship from Wolff & Phan Autism Center. It is a free, walk-in resource for anyone who needs a quieter moment before a flight.
TSA Cares: Extra Help at Screening
If you or a traveling companion has a disability or medical condition and wants help getting through screening, TSA Cares is the national helpline for exactly that: 1-855-787-2227. The Sunflower announcement specifically points travelers to TSA Cares, so it is the right number to call ahead of travel day if you have questions about screening procedures. For general TSA timing and tips at CAK, see our CAK TSA security guide.
Wheelchairs: Arrange with Your Airline
Wheelchair assistance specifics are not published on the airport’s official site, and CAK does not describe an airport-run wheelchair service. Travelers who need wheelchair assistance should arrange special assistance directly with their airline, ideally when booking or well before travel day. Your airline coordinates the service from check-in through boarding at the gate.
Elevators and Accessible Restrooms
Elevator access to the second-level concourse is provided near TSA, per the official terminal map. Accessible bathrooms are marked near Baggage Claim 4, the Conference Room, Gate 4, and between Gates 7 and 8. See our CAK terminal map and layout guide for the full gate-by-gate picture.
A glass elevator in an airport terminal (illustrative photo). Photo: Remya, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
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