A&K Robotics last week announced its self-driving robot pods are being tested at the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, or ATL, in collaboration with Southwest Airlines to help enhance the travel experience of passengers with reduced mobility, or PRM.
A&K said it specializes in advanced navigation systems and has developed electric pods to safely transport people with limited mobility in crowded places, such as airports and malls, while avoiding obstacles and people.
The company added these self-driving pods empower travelers to navigate airports more easily and independently – from reaching the gates to getting food at restaurants.
Pods help people with limited mobility
PRMs are one of the fastest growing passenger groups in aviation, A&K said. The most common request for mobility assistance comes from individuals who can normally walk short distances and climb stairs independently but need transport assistance to cover longer distances.
For example, someone who has had a knee surgery or an elderly passenger who cannot walk long distances can request assistance.
“We have been looking for advanced mobile robotics solutions to improve operations and found that A&K has the most advanced autonomous micro mobility solution for PRM assistance,” said Jai Farrell, deputy general manager and chief commercial officer at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
“This is the first time we are testing robots at the departure level and the results are very impressive. We are looking forward to expanding the tests and possibly adding A&K’s pods to our existing PRM operations, making it easier for our passengers to navigate the airport,” Farrell added.
In response to the current pandemic, Hartsfield-Jackson said it has pivoted to focus on implementing heightened safety protocols while maintaining efficiency and financial stability. The airport normally boasts a direct economic impact of $66 billion in the region.
A&K Robotics works with Southwest Airlines
Vancouver, British Columbia-based A&K Robotics’ autonomous technology is being tested at the Atlanta Airport’s departure level in Concourse C, in collaboration with Southwest Airlines. It claims to be the world’s busiest airport, processing more than 100 million passengers annually.
“We designed our autonomous platform to positively impact the world, improve quality of life and play a major role in the future of transportation,” said Jessica Yip, chief operating officer at A&K Robotics. “To see our innovation being considered by Atlanta Airport to enhance the travel experience of passengers with limited mobility, is exhilarating.
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