Cochin airport deploys robot to guide passengers and showcase Kerala art

Cochin International Airport Limited has deployed a passenger assistance robot at its domestic terminal art museum, with plans to expand the technology to check-in areas and potentially introduce delivery robots across the facility.

Robot stationed at airport art museum

The first robot has been positioned at Kalangan, the art museum in the domestic security hold area, where CIAL managing director S. Suhas inaugurated the service. Pune-based Kinetics Robotics developed the machine for the airport operator.

Dual role: Travel assistance and cultural promotion

The robot greets passengers and provides directions, real-time flight information, and guidance to boarding gates and other airport facilities. Travellers can interact with it to obtain details on CIAL services, flight schedules, and gate numbers.

Beyond operational assistance, the robot promotes Kerala's cultural heritage by offering information on traditional art forms including Kathakali and Ottanthullal, as well as the sculptures and artworks on display at Kalangan. Passengers receive directions to relevant exhibits.

Expansion plans for robotics programme

In the next phase, CIAL intends to deploy passenger assistance robots in the airport's check-in halls. The operator is also exploring delivery robots that could bring food and other products directly to passengers inside the terminal, according to an airport statement.

CIAL executive director Santhosh Poovattil, head of commercial Manoj P. Joseph, and Kinetics Robotics representative Jignesh Nair attended the launch.

Source: The Hindu