AviaVox, the leading provider of intelligent artificial voice systems for airports and airlines will demonstrate a proof of concept for their new technology, PAstream.
PAstream offers a flexible, cost-effective alternative to audio frequency induction loop systems (AFILS) for airports and airlines. It is designed to support passengers with hearing impairments or with hidden disabilities such as autism and ADHD – for whom the noise and bustle of an airport can be distressing and challenging.
PAstream uses AviaVox’s passenger announcement software to deliver flight and other types of PA calls to aviation passengers via their own mobile devices. Passengers can store, read, replay and retrieve messages (including past messages) in both text and audio form. The cloud-based app is accessed via a QR code or URL, requiring no special software, hardware, user registration or personal details. Thanks to the AviaVox technology, all information delivered to passengers is fed directly from the airport operational database (AODB) and is therefore accurate and in real time.
- The audio option allows passengers to play and repeat messages using either simple earbuds/headphones or via a Bluetooth-enabled hearing aid paired to the user’s mobile phone.
- The text option permits people – including those who are profoundly deaf – to access all the information they need to enjoy a low-stress airport experience and to arrive at the correct gate on time.
PAstream’s active PA zone selection and message filtering allow passengers to receive only those messages which are relevant to them – based on location, flight details, carriers, etc. This reduces listener fatigue and supports any ‘silent airport’ policy which may already be in place.
Traditional AFILS (loop) systems cannot usually cover the entire airport. They also require special hearing aids, which means that only a proportion of hearing-impaired passengers can access PA announcements.