What Happened
Japanese Airline Leans On AI To Offset Shrinking Workforce
All Nippon Airways (ANA) is introducing remote passenger support across multiple regional airports in Japan, starting August 21, 2026, in partnership with Tokyo-based AI and robotics startup avatarin. The service utilizes ’newme’ robots operated centrally from Kansai International Airport, enabling staff to assist travelers at regional airports remotely. This initiative is part of ANA’s broader strategy to blend human hospitality with digital technology, aiming to reduce wait times and improve customer support. The rollout reflects Japan’s increasing reliance on automation to offset a shrinking workforce, as reported by AeroTime.