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Robots are already roaming airport terminals, from Glasgow to Geneva, Seoul to Shenzhen. They are cleaning, guiding, and providing information to passengers. They are also being used for security and to deliver food. Some predict that by 2030, robots will have taken over our airports, replacing check-in staff and removing human contact from air travel. But is this a future we want?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Airport Functions | Check-in, security, cleaning, deliveries, baggage handling, law enforcement, guiding passengers, entertainment, restaurant services |
| Advantages | Enhanced efficiency, safety, accuracy, security, cheaper costs, improved travel experience, ability to detect threats, handle risky situations |
| Concerns | Potential for malfunction, accidental harm to passengers, data security, privacy concerns |
| Predictions | Service robots will take over airports by 2030, human interaction will still be essential |
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What You'll Learn
Robots will improve airport security
Robots are already beginning to take over many aspects of airport operations, from cleaning to security. While some have concerns about the safety and efficacy of robots in airports, they are likely to play an increasingly prominent role in the future.
One of the key areas where robots are being deployed is airport security screening. Advanced robotic systems use sensors and algorithms to detect prohibited items and identify suspicious people, reducing the need for manual inspections and minimising security risks. For example, Kansai Airport in Japan has introduced two autonomous security robots that can navigate and patrol routes, identify their locations with laser sensors, and capture images with built-in cameras. Shenzhen’s Bao’an International Airport has also deployed Anbot, a security robot equipped with a taser, to monitor the departure hall, identify suspicious people, and help passengers navigate.
Robots can also be used to handle risky situations, such as dealing with bombs or other security threats. They can act as "another set of eyes to supplement existing security", improving the efficiency and accuracy of security operations. For instance, Hamad International Airport in Qatar has introduced a security robot in the form of a scooter, with built-in cameras that can measure pulse rate, carry out facial recognition, and detect fake credit cards and currencies.
In addition to enhancing security, robots can also improve the overall airport experience for travellers. They can be used to provide information and assistance, such as helping passengers find their boarding gates or recommending restaurants. Furthermore, robots can be used for contactless food delivery and health checks, increasing passenger safety and confidence, especially in the post-pandemic era.
While the use of robots in airports raises valid concerns about safety and data security, their implementation is likely to be gradual, with certain models accompanied by a staff member until they become fully autonomous. Overall, robots have the potential to improve airport security by increasing efficiency, accuracy, and labour savings, while also enhancing the overall passenger experience.
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They will also improve cleaning and safety
The integration of robots in airports has been gradual, with robots already deployed in various roles, from cleaning to security.
Robots are increasingly being used for cleaning, with some airports deploying cleaning robots that move autonomously, choosing the best route for cleaning using a map of the airport in their database. Heathrow Airport, for example, has been using UV light cleaning robots to disinfect areas in airport terminals and lounges. These robots have been instrumental in keeping the airport Covid-secure, with their speed and ability to sanitise enabling cleaning technicians to carry out their duties with greater efficiency.
Incheon International Airport in South Korea has deployed LG cleaning robots, while Glasgow Airport has been trialling a robot called Gladys to provide passenger information.
In terms of security, robots are useful in detecting threats using facial recognition. Shenzhen's Bao'an International Airport in China, for instance, has deployed Anbot, a security robot equipped with a taser to patrol the airport, monitor the departure hall, identify suspicious people, and help passengers navigate. A security robot in the form of a scooter has also been deployed at Hamad International Airport in Qatar. This robot is equipped with cameras that can measure pulse rate, carry out facial recognition, and detect fake credit cards and currencies.
Robots can also be used to handle risky situations, such as dealing with bombs, and they can improve overall airport safety and efficiency by taking on physically demanding and repetitive tasks that human workers once performed.
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Robots will replace check-in staff
This prediction is already becoming a reality at some airports. For example, Kate at Kansai Airport is an intelligent check-in robotic kiosk that moves autonomously to busy areas of the terminal, reducing wait times for passengers. Leo of Geneva Airport is a bag-drop robot that allows passengers to scan their boarding passes and print baggage receipts without having to drag their luggage around.
Robots are also being used at airport check-in desks to carry out security protocols, clean, and deliver food to passengers. They can improve the efficiency and safety of airport operations by taking on repetitive and physically demanding tasks, such as cleaning and baggage handling.
However, the use of robots in airports raises some concerns. For example, will robots be able to correctly carry out duties autonomously? Is passenger data secure, especially when it comes to health and mood data? Additionally, while robots can reduce costs for airports, human interaction in airports is essential, and some passengers may prefer human contact during their travel experience.
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They will enhance the customer experience
Robots are already enhancing the customer experience in airports around the world. From robotic food delivery to cleaning and security, robots are increasingly being used to improve the services in airports.
For example, at Incheon International Airport in Seoul, South Korea, robots escort late or lost passengers to their departure gates and clean the floors. At New York City's LaGuardia Airport, robots act as "another set of eyes to supplement existing security". At Shenzhen's Bao'an International Airport, a security robot patrols the airport, monitoring the departure hall, identifying suspicious people, and helping passengers navigate.
Robots can also be used to ensure passenger safety by carrying out health checks, cleaning protocols, and security measures. For instance, at Hamad International Airport in Qatar, a security robot in the form of a scooter has built-in cameras that can measure pulse rate, carry out facial recognition, and detect fake credit cards and currencies. Heathrow Airport in London has been using UV cleaning robots that disinfect areas, providing a safe and secure environment for passengers.
Additionally, robots can provide passenger information, act as guides, and even provide entertainment. Glasgow Airport has been trialling a robot called Gladys to provide passenger information, while KLM has been testing a robot called Spencer, which is designed to help guide passengers to their departure gates. Hitachi's EMIEW3 robot can take passengers to the airport shop and advise them on what to buy.
By taking on repetitive and physically demanding tasks, robots can enhance operational efficiency, minimise the risk of injury, and improve accuracy in processes. They can also handle large volumes of passengers and cargo with ease, reducing waiting times and improving the overall travel experience.
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Robots will reduce human interaction
Robots are already being used in airports to reduce human interaction. For example, at Incheon International Airport in Seoul, South Korea, robots escort late or lost passengers to their departure gates and clean the floors. At Shenzhen's Bao'an International Airport, a security robot called AnBot patrols the airport, monitoring the departure hall, identifying suspicious people, and helping passengers navigate.
Robots are also being used to improve the efficiency of check-in processes. Kate, an intelligent check-in robot at Kansai Airport, moves autonomously to busy areas of the terminal to reduce passenger wait times. Leo, a bag-drop robot at Geneva Airport, allows passengers to print a bag tag and baggage receipt without interacting with a human.
In addition to improving efficiency, robots can also enhance security and safety. A security robot at Hamad International Airport in Qatar is equipped with cameras that can measure pulse rate, carry out facial recognition, and detect fake credit cards and currencies. Heathrow Airport has implemented cleaning robots that disinfect areas using UV light, providing a safe and secure environment for passengers.
While the use of robots in airports can improve efficiency, security, and the overall travel experience, it also raises questions and concerns. Some people may prefer human interaction when seeking assistance or dealing with complex issues. There are also potential risks associated with robot malfunctions, accidental harm to passengers, and the security of passenger data.
As technology continues to develop, it is likely that robots will play an increasingly significant role in airports, transforming the way passengers experience air travel. However, it remains to be seen whether the reduction of human interaction will ultimately be beneficial or detrimental to airport operations and the overall passenger experience.
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Frequently asked questions
Robots can improve efficiency, safety, and the overall travel experience for passengers. They can take on repetitive and physically demanding tasks, reducing the risk of injury and enhancing accuracy. Robots can also be used to handle dangerous situations, such as dealing with bombs.
At Incheon International Airport in Seoul, South Korea, robots escort travellers to their gates and clean the floors. Shenzhen's Bao'an International Airport in China has deployed Anbot, a security robot equipped with facial recognition technology and a taser, to patrol the airport and identify suspicious people. At Hamad International Airport in Qatar, a security robot in the form of a scooter uses facial recognition and can detect fake credit cards and currencies.
There are concerns about the potential loss of human interaction in airports, which is essential in the service industry. Other concerns include the possibility of robots accidentally harming passengers, malfunctioning, or not correctly carrying out duties autonomously. The security and privacy of passenger data are also important considerations.
It is predicted that service robots will take over airports by 2030, replacing existing check-in processes and providing real-time flight information. Robotics will become a central pillar of airport logistics and security, enhancing efficiency and minimising errors. However, the impact of this transformation can only be fully understood in the foreseeable future.
