Glasgow Airport will test AI and AR to support those in need
Glasgow Airport and the Connected Places Catapult are the UK’s innovation accelerator for cities, transport, and place leadership. They are starting a thrilling set of trials for accessibility technology. The trials cover artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented reality. They belong to the programme known as the Connected Airport Living Lab. AI forms one of the triumvirates of focal points in the FTE Digital, Innovation, & Startup Hub in 2024, along with robotics and the Internet of Things (IoT).
A band of visionaries will join the airport’s accessibility team. They will unite with researchers from Connected Places, Catapult, and the inclusive research agency Open Inclusion. These experts will all be in the terminal to set up a series of dynamic trials. They will chronicle participants’ engagements with the technologies and amass feedback on user responses. The essence of this endeavour is to unearth insights that will guide the refinement of solutions and prepare these enterprises for future success.
Ronald Leitch is the interim chief operating officer. He was incredibly proud of the top-notch service that AGS Airports, Glasgow Airport’s owner, provided. He stated that the service helps the multitude of special assistance passengers passing through its bustling terminals each year. Technology is advancing, especially in artificial intelligence and augmented reality. These advances hold great promise. They’ll improve these essential services and the customer experience. Ronald Leitch said they firmly believe that air travel should be for everyone. They are glad to note that more people needing extra support are choosing to fly. He further clarified that they are now testing the new technologies. The new technology already shows great potential to enable more special assistance passengers to start their journeys.
One of the organisations chosen to test their innovations is Gazooky Studios. Their ChapARone is a real-time messaging service. It uses AI and augmented reality to assist travellers with disabilities. This cutting-edge system enables transportation hubs to distribute information through a network of accessible QR-coded information points. Hello, Lamp Post is another top contender. They specialise in deploying AI-driven digital assistants in public venues. Users access these by scanning location-specific QR codes. They facilitate 24/7 interaction and aid. These pioneering technologies optimise passenger assistance, streamline airport navigation, and improve wayfinding guidance to elevate the traveller experience.
Signapse delivers automated sign language announcements utilising state-of-the-art AI methodologies. Supporting both British and American Sign Language, this advancement enhances accessibility for deaf travellers within public spaces. Signly is joining the mix. It offers sign language translations in British, American, Irish, and German Sign Language. These are through pre-recorded videos. They enrich websites and airport communications. They make information easy to access via smartphones using QR codes. This integration offers invaluable support to passengers who rely on sign language for effective communication.
As technology progresses, there is an opportunity to enhance travel experiences for all passengers, including those with specific needs. Paul Wilson, Chief Business Officer at Connected Places Catapult, highlighted this. However, creating inclusive technologies in tightly controlled transport hubs like airports brings hurdles, especially for smaller companies. They collaborate with Glasgow Airport in the Connected Airport Living Lab. They aim to ease businesses’ challenges and allow them to experiment and learn in the real world.
