Schiphol Airport Launches Self-Driving Wheelchairs to Boost Accessibility

Schiphol Airport is rolling out an exciting new service to enhance mobility for passengers with limited movement: self-driving wheelchairs. This cutting-edge service empowers travelers, especially the elderly or those with physical challenges, to navigate the airport with greater independence. Over the next year, Schiphol will pilot these wheelchairs to make air travel more accessible and inclusive for everyone.

The wheelchairs, crafted by WHILL, a leader in personal mobility solutions, offer a completely autonomous ride from key spots within the airport to departure gates. During the trial, ten of these wheelchairs will be available, allowing Schiphol to evaluate their performance in a bustling airport setting. Best of all, the service is free, and travelers can use it without prior reservations, making it a practical option for those needing last-minute assistance.

Getting Started with the Service

Travelers can find the self-driving wheelchairs in Lounges 2 and 3, beyond passport control in the non-Schengen area, mainly catering to intercontinental flights. Using the service is straightforward: passengers simply sit down, buckle up, and select their gate number. Thanks to its advanced sensors, the wheelchair then expertly navigates through the airport, avoiding obstacles and mingling seamlessly with other travelers. Once at the gate, passengers disembark, and the wheelchair returns to its starting point, ready for the next passenger.

HPlans for the Future

The autonomous wheelchairs have safety features like sensors to detect nearby objects and people, an emergency stop button, and a seatbelt. They also include a luggage rack for carrying hand baggage. For those requiring extra help, the Axxicom Airport Caddy service is on hand to offer personal support when necessary.

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Currently, these wheelchairs are available for departing passengers on weekdays from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM in Lounges 2 and 3. Schiphol intends to gradually extend the service to include arriving passengers and test features like elevator use and pause or stop-off options on the way to the gate. These trials are part of Schiphol’s broader mission to assess the potential for a permanent service offering.