Schiphol Group – a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub – has begun a year-long test of 10 autonomous wheelchairs made by WHILL – an exhibitor at FTE Global, the “CES of Aviation” taking place in Los Angeles on 28-30 October 2024. With this innovation, Schiphol wants to enhance the independence of passengers with reduced mobility and make travelling as easy as possible for them.
The service is free of charge and advance booking is not necessary. The wheelchairs can be found at three locations in Lounge 2 and 3, just after passport control. This is in the non-Schengen area with primarily intercontinental destinations. Travellers can simply get in, put on their seatbelt and select their gate number. The wheelchair will then drive autonomously to the gate. Upon arrival the traveller gets out of the wheelchair, and it automatically drives back to the starting point.
“Autonomous vehicles play an important part in the airport of the future and we’re already putting that into practice,” said Patricia Vitalis, Executive Director Operations, Schiphol. “After a short trial period in 2023, we are now taking one year to extensively test the self-driving wheelchair at the airport. Travellers with reduced mobility would like to move around the airport independently. The self-driving wheelchairs make that possible, without the need for an assistant to accompany them. This innovation is an important step in our ongoing efforts to make the airport accessible to everyone.”
The self-driving wheelchair has a baggage rack at the rear that can carry hand baggage. The wheelchair has sensors that take other travellers, obstacles and the surroundings into account. There is also an emergency button and a seatbelt to ensure safety. If travellers do need personal assistance, it will be provided by Axxicom Airport Caddy.
Hear more from Schiphol Group at FTE Global – the “CES of Aviation” taking place in Los Angeles on 28-30 October 2024. Zahra Merchant, Chapter Lead Robotics, Schiphol Group, is participating in ‘The FTE Robotics & Autonomous Vehicles Symposium’.
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