Amsterdam Airport Schiphol has begun trialling a new, fully-electric, self-driving baggage vehicle.
The vehicle, which has been tasked with the transfer of both passenger bags and suitcases for flights with a direct connection, has been introduced into airport operations in partnership with KLM Baggage Services.
Provided by supplier Aurrigo, the autonomous vehicle transfers passenger luggage to a temporary storage location before taking each item to the baggage hall, where it is then processed through Schiphol’s handling system.
Jan Zekveld, Senior Manager Innovation bij Royal Schiphol Group, said:We aim to operate one of the world's most sustainable and pioneering airports by 2050. That's why we're committed to creating a more sustainable, zero-emission ground operation. We're replacing the vehicle fleet with a connected network of autonomous, emission-free vehicles.
In doing so, we are automating all related processes. Employees will continue to play an important role in an autonomous ground operation. The work will be more varied and more directive.
The first phase of testing began in August 2024, with initial trials seeing the vehicle mapping Schiphol’s apron environment through the use of 3D cameras in order to navigate the area seamlessly. During this phase, each step of the overall process was performed singularly, with follow up testing moving to full automation of the entire process.
As the new phase of testing begins, the vehicle has been given permission to travel freely around the pier of the airport, with plans to expand its initial route upon the successful performance of operations with additional uses on aircraft stands.
Aurrigo’s self-driving vehicle is fully equipped with a set of Lidar sensors, as well as cameras allowing for a 360-degree viewing angle around the unit. Currently, a Safety Operator has been kept on hand to intervene if necessary.
