#Japan #AI Technology #Tokyo #Haneda Airport #Vacan

Revolutionizing Airport Experience with AI

In a significant move to enhance the travel experience, VACAN, a company specializing in crowd management solutions, has announced the implementation of its state-of-the-art AI technology at Haneda Airport’s ANA SUITE EXPRESS security screening area. This innovative service, launching on April 24, 2025, aims to eliminate unnecessary waiting times during peak travel periods like Golden Week and Obon.

Background of the Initiative

During major holidays, airports, especially Haneda, tend to become congested, leading to extended wait times at both security checks and self-service luggage drop points. VACAN's revolutionary service proactively addresses these bottlenecks by providing real-time data on crowd levels for ANA’s security screening and ANA BAGGAGE DROP, allowing passengers to navigate the airport more efficiently.

Details of the Implementation

The system relies on VACAN's AIS (Automated Information System), which utilizes strategically placed cameras throughout the ANA SUITE EXPRESS area to monitor crowd levels. This technology collects data on foot traffic and processes it to provide instant updates through digital signage and the web. By leveraging this system, travelers can easily identify less crowded security checks and baggage drop locations, thereby minimizing stress and wait times.

The areas where crowd visualization will be implemented include:

• - Security Screening Areas: ANA SUITE EXPRESS, ANA SUITE CHECK-IN, ANA PREMIUM CHECK-IN (North), and security checkpoints.
• - Automated Baggage Drop Locations: Three designated points within Haneda Airport.

Service Highlights

VACAN’s crowd detection system, VACAN AIS, is designed to automatically assess the number of passengers in real-time, using advanced AI technology that processes live video feeds from the installed cameras. This means existing operational procedures can remain unchanged while offering insights into crowd levels. The resulting information is then disseminated via web pages and digital displays, catering to various user needs.

Moreover, VACAN's technology also records the number of occupants and their duration of stay, transforming raw data into useful metrics that can facilitate effective operational improvements.

Company Background

Founded in June 2016 and based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, VACAN operates under the guidance of President Takeshi Kawano. The company has been recognized as a selected firm in the J-Startup 2019 program by the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry of Japan. VACAN has a track record of applying its AI technology across a range of environments including restaurants, tourist spots, restrooms, and more, continuously working to reduce waiting times through effective crowd management strategies.

With the introduction of this innovative service at Haneda Airport, VACAN is poised to revolutionize how passengers interact with the airport environment, making travel more comfortable and efficient. By tackling congestion head-on, VACAN doesn’t just aim to enhance passenger satisfaction but to redefine airport efficiency in the age of AI.