Lyon Airport has introduced a multilingual virtual agent powered by generative AI, offering real‑time guidance and flight information through interactive 3D kiosks.
Lyon Airport, the VINCI Airports centre of excellence for innovation in passenger experience, has become the first airport in Europe to trial a 3D avatar designed to assist travellers with real‑time guidance and information. Installed on two animated interactive kiosks, the system uses generative artificial intelligence to respond to spoken enquiries and support passengers as they navigate the terminal.
How does the agentic AI agent work?
Developed in partnership with start‑up Jumbo Mana, the virtual agent is powered by agentic AI technology and can provide tailored answers in around 30 languages. Positioned in both the departure and arrival areas, it complements existing communication channels such as signage, mobile applications and interactive screens, and aims to further streamline the passenger journey.
The solution delivers dynamic operational updates including live flight and air‑traffic information, spatial guidance using an interactive airport map, and general details about airport services, shops, destinations from Lyon-Saint Exupéry and activities in the wider region.
The system operates using a dedicated language model capable of understanding a passenger’s spoken request, analysing it, and producing an accurate and contextual response both verbally and in written form. It draws from a continually updated knowledge base maintained by the airport, ensuring relevance and reliability. The 3D avatar also integrates mapping functionality, enabling travellers to locate boarding gates, essential services and live operational updates with ease. With full animation and speech capability, the agent provides an interactive, human‑centred experience intended to build familiarity and ease throughout the airport environment.
