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Travel is being made more efficient by innovative technology. From artificial intelligence to augmented reality, technology is undoubtedly revolutionizing the way we travel. Now, robots are helping airports run more efficiently, assisting passengers, and even building and maintaining aircraft. Read on to understand how robots in aviation are impacting the industry.
Aircraft Maintenance
Robots are completely transforming aircraft maintenance by performing tasks that are dangerous and time-consuming for humans. Autonomous drones equipped with high-resolution cameras can inspect the exterior of planes and check for damage and wear. These drones can quickly and accurately identify issues such as cracks and loose bolts. This reduces the time planes spend on the ground, improving operational efficiency. In December 2023, British Airways adopted AI-powered robots for aircraft maintenance. According to passengers traveling on Indian Eagle itineraries, the move improves efficiency and helps prevent problems. Other major airlines around the world are also using artificial intelligence-based robots in various ways.
Baggage Handling
The use of robots for baggage handling in the aviation industry has become a common sight at many airports in India and across the world. Introducing robots in baggage handling streamlines the process. It also reduces lost and mishandled bags. Today, many major airports use Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) to transport baggage from the check-in counter to a specific aircraft and vice versa. These robotic vehicles are programmed to navigate the airport layout efficiently. This minimizes human error and increases the speed of baggage handling. Travelers benefit from faster and more reliable baggage service, contributing to a smoother travel experience. Self-service baggage drop kiosks have recently been introduced at Delhi Airport and Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore.
Cleaning and disinfection
Aviation robotics is also revolutionizing hygiene standards in airports and aircraft, especially after the pandemic. Autonomous cleaning robots equipped with UV-C lights and disinfectant sprays can now sanitize large areas quickly. Many airlines are also using robots to clean their aircraft. In June 2023, Vistara became the first airline in India to introduce robotic aircraft exterior cleaning. This eco-friendly robotic system is called Aerowash and cleans planes with minimal water. Then, in December 2023, Air India launched a new robotic system to clean the interior of planes in an eco-friendly way. The system uses almost no water and is more efficient than traditional methods, saving up to 75,000 litres of water per wash.
Also read: The future of AI and augmented reality tourism
Passenger Assistance
Customer service robots have become a common sight at airports. These AI-powered robots provide passengers with information and assistance. They can guide them to the boarding gate, answer frequently asked questions, and even help with the check-in process. Passengers travelling on flights to Bangalore are often delighted to see robots at Kempegowda International Airport. The airport has 10 robots available to guide passengers and answer basic queries.
Security and Surveillance
If robots can guide people, they can also provide security. Right? Robots are now being used to further enhance airport security with advanced surveillance capabilities. The robots are carefully designed and equipped with cameras and sensors. They can monitor activity, patrol airport grounds, and detect suspicious behavior. San Antonio Airport in Texas will soon be introducing a 420-pound “autonomous security robot.” The robot may be used to check alarms that are set off when doors are opened in security areas, and cannot be used for surveillance. Notably, some San Antonio city council members are concerned about privacy issues, so we will have to wait for further developments.
Aircraft manufacturing
Aircraft manufacturing processes have benefited greatly from aviation robots. Robots are now used to quickly and accurately assemble aircraft parts. Both Airbus and Boeing leverage robotic systems in fuselage assembly to achieve unparalleled precision and streamline production. For example, Boeing uses robots for drilling and fastening tasks on its 777X assembly line, ensuring a consistent high level of precision, a key factor in maintaining the structural integrity of the aircraft.
Many aviation-related industries, including manufacturing, passenger services, security, and maintenance, are undergoing transformation thanks to robots. The precision, efficiency, and consistency with which robots perform tasks are revolutionizing the functioning of airports and airlines. The use of robots in the aviation industry is expected to increase with technological developments, bringing further advancements and breakthroughs in the sector. The integration of robots not only improves operational efficiency but also significantly improves passenger experience. This makes air travel safer and more reliable.
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