All Nippon Airways (ANA) has launched a new sign language badge to better support deaf travellers ahead of the 2025 Deaflympics, an international multi-sport competition for deaf and hard-of-hearing athletes, which will be held in Tokyo in November.
The move, designed to enhance the airline’s barrier-free services, is part of the ANA Group’s commitment to “creating a sky welcoming everyone”.
The new badge depicts a heart formed by two intersecting fingers, symbolising connection through hands. The imagery reflects the airline’s “commitment to inspiring kindness and compassion through sign language”, according to ANA. It will be worn by cabin attendants and airport staff who hold at least a level four certificate in either the Japanese Sign Language Proficiency Test or the Japanese National Sign Language Certification.
The “enhanced visibility” of the eye-catching purple pin will help ensure “customers who require sign language support can easily identify and approach staff with confidence”, ANA continued.
Keiji Omae, ANA’s executive vice president of customer experience, said: “(The new badge) emphasises our dedication to inclusivity and accessibility for all our passengers. We recognise that seamless communication is essential for fostering connection, and this badge will enable our staff to connect more effectively with customers who rely on sign language.”
Scheduled for November 15-26, the Deaflympics, which is held every four years, is expected to host approximately 6,000 deaf athletes, staff, officials and referees from 80 countries and regions in Tokyo. In addition, some 3,000 volunteers will attend the games to support visitors and operations.
