At Tokyo's Haneda Airport, Noema's Sign Language animation technology is helping make travel information more accessible to deaf and hard-of-hearing passengers. Developed in collaboration with NHK Enterprises, the technology supports 3D animations now used in applications at the airport.

Sign Language Concierge at Haneda Airport's Terminal 1 information desk

Improving Airport Accessibility with Sign Language Animation

Introduced as a pilot project in March 2026, Haneda Airport’s Sign Language Concierge features KIKI, a digital human developed by NHK Enterprises, who responds to common passenger questions through prerecorded sign language animation videos.

Available on a tablet at the Terminal 1 information desk, the service provides information about airport facilities and services. For inquiries beyond the available responses, passengers can also connect with a remote sign language interpreter.

KIKI providing guidance on the Sign Language Concierge tablet at Haneda Airport.

In August 2026, Haneda Airport expanded the use of KIKI to digital signage in departure areas of Terminals 1 and 2. These displays feature KIKI presenting airport guidance, including announcements and security checkpoint directions, in Japanese Sign Language and International Sign, accompanied by Japanese and English text and visual information.

KIKI presenting sign language guidance on digital signage at Haneda Airport

Noema's Computer Vision Technology

Noema's Sign Language Animation application uses AI and computer vision to transform 2D video recordings into 3D character animations.

The technology captures gestures from video, generates a 3D digital skeleton, and applies the recorded movements to digital characters. Its algorithms place particular emphasis on detailed hand and finger movements, which are essential for accurately reproducing sign language.

Unlike traditional motion capture systems that rely on multiple specialized cameras, sensors, and suits, Noema's application can operate using a single camera. This simplifies the animation process and reduces production costs, making the technology more practical for a range of applications.

Expanding Accessibility Through Computer Vision

The deployment at Haneda Airport demonstrates how computer vision-powered sign language animation can be applied in real-world environments. Beyond airports, the technology offers opportunities for hotels, transportation hubs, and other public-facing facilities to provide information in more accessible formats.

Learn more about Noema's Sign Language Animation technology - https://noema.tech/sign-language-animation/