ANA has announced it will be launching some new tech designed to boost communications between flight attendants.

The device, called BONX Grip, uses a combo of proprietary technology with a smart application to give people the power to speak – with a normal tone and volume – to colleagues, as though they were standing next to each other, at any distance. A boon for cabin crew, who are often overwhelmed if ever there was one.

“Better equipped to meet passenger needs”

“At ANA, we apply the latest technology to constantly improve our ability to offer world-class service, hospitality and comfort aboard our flights,” said Akihiko Miura, executive vice president of ANA. “By making it easier for flight attendants to communicate with each other, they will be better equipped to meet passenger needs. These hearable devices are just one important tool that ANA is testing, and we look forward to harnessing the latest technological breakthroughs to improve every aspect of the travel experience.”

The device will take the place of the airlines’ current intercom set-up to provide communication between flight attendants on the Airbus A380. The increased staff required to operate an A380 makes it the perfect case for this promising new technology. This will increase flexibility and give flight attendants more options as they work together to meet passenger needs.

ANA will begin using this hearable device from 24 May 2019 on board the first FLYING HONU flight. Data and feedback will be collected that will help ANA determine if the technology will be expanded to other employees working around the aircraft.