New service helps travelers receive airport audio announcements as text, in their preferred language, and in sign language, improving customer service, accessibility and independence throughout the terminal.

The service is especially beneficial for passengers who are Deaf or hard of hearing, who may not be able to rely on traditional overhead audio announcements. It also supports travelers who are more comfortable receiving information in a language other than English or French, as well as passengers in busy terminal areas where audio announcements can be difficult to hear.

The new service enhances the travel experience by delivering real-time airport audio announcements on large airport screens and their smartphones, as text, in the language of their choice inclusive of Inuktitut, and in sign-language. This provides travelers with another way to receive important airport information, helping reduce uncertainty, anxiety, and support a smoother journey through the terminal.

The Association de l’ouïe de l’Outaouais (ADOO) contributes to this initiative by providing Quebec Sign Language (LSQ) and American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters and by producing the video messages shown at airports. Incorporating these languages ​​into airport communications represents a step toward universal accessibility, acknowledging the linguistic needs of Deaf individuals and fostering their autonomy.

“For Deaf people, being able to understand announcements and act at the same time as other passengers is essential; access to information in sign language enables them to make their own decisions and travel with greater independence,” notes François Marchand, Executive Director of the ADOO.

In addition to displaying the announcements on large screens throughout the terminal, passengers can also access the service on their own device by scanning posted QR codes, visiting a web link, or downloading the app.