Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport is innovating by testing a virtual agent based on artificial intelligence to inform and assist its travelers. Equipped with a conversational 3D avatar, this new technological tool is installed on two interactive kiosks in Terminal 1. Its mission is to provide accurate, real-time information on flights, airport services, and passenger guidance using an interactive map. A revolution is underway at Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport. This airport has become the first in Europe to test an intelligent virtual agent to assist travelers. Thanks to interactive kiosks equipped with a conversational 3D avatar and using advanced AI technology, this new virtual agent promises to significantly improve the passenger experience, while complementing existing reception areas and human agents. Technological innovation for travelers Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport is innovating with the introduction of two interactive kiosks in Terminal 1. Equipped with a conversational 3D avatar, these kiosks provide travelers with real-time support for information on flights, available services, and easy navigation using an interactive map. This initiative is the result of a collaboration between Vinci Airports and the startup Jumbo Mana, which specializes in agentic artificial intelligence. The advanced features of the virtual agent Developed using the latest advances in AI, this powerful virtual agent is available 24/7. Its ability to understand and interact in around thirty languages, with a focus on French and English, makes it particularly accessible to international travelers. According to Jumbo Mana CEO Christophe Renaudineau, this innovation represents a true technological breakthrough, improving understanding of passenger needs while automating flow management through an intelligent interactive map. Integration and Complementary Role for Human TeamsCédric Fechter, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Aéroports de Lyon, explains that this virtual agent does not replace human teams but, on the contrary, complements existing reception systems. The virtual agent provides continuous and reliable service, allowing human agents to focus on tasks requiring personal intervention. This ensures optimal synchronization between technology and human service, offering travelers the most comprehensive assistance possible. The Future of the Passenger Experience at Lyon-Saint Exupéry
With this initiative, Lyon-Saint Exupéry is establishing itself as a pioneer in the integration of artificial intelligence technologies within the airport industry. The goal is to offer travelers a seamless and enhanced experience, while strengthening the airport’s position as a leading European hub. This project demonstrates AI’s ability to transform complex environments, offering adaptive and innovative solutions that redefine customer service standards.