Halifax Stanfield International Airport has begun testing two passenger assistance robots as part of a pilot project developed with local start-up Maritime Robotics.
The initiative aims to trial new technology to support wayfinding and provide information to travellers and visitors.
The robots, positioned in the airport’s Centre Court and Arrivals areas before security, are equipped with voice recognition and touch screen interfaces. They can provide details on flights, weather, airport services, and amenities. Within a programmed perimeter, they are able to guide users directly to specific locations in the terminal. For destinations outside that range, a static map function is available.
Tiffany Chase, Director of Marketing, Communications & Customer Experience at the Halifax International Airport Authority (HIAA) said:We are pleased to partner with a local start-up to test robotic technology at our airport. This collaboration marks an exciting step toward enhancing wayfinding and elevating the passenger experience. By embracing technology solutions like these, we are prioritising airport efficiency and innovation, with a touch of fun in the terminal. Think WALL·E with a map — and they’re pretty adorable, too.
The robots will remain on trial for several months, with HIAA evaluating their effectiveness in supplementing the work of airport employees and volunteers, particularly at busy travel periods.
Huijing He, Director, Maritime Robotics said:Bringing this kind of innovation to our local airport is especially meaningful. It’s not just about introducing new technology — it’s about enhancing the travel experience for our community and taking a significant step toward the future of travel, powered by the people who make it possible.
