Disabled travellers have another reason to be happy as the self-driving wheelchairs will soon be a sight at Abu Dhabi International Airport.
The autonomous wheelchairs – a partnership between the airport, Etihad Airwways, IT firm SITA and electric vehicle supplier WHILL – are currently being tested in anticipation of the opening of the new and massive Midfield Terminal.
This innovation will help airport guests and travellers with disabilities to go around the airport facilities with ease and comfort.
Technology-wise, the wheelchairs are designed with real-time boarding times and gate information, automatic brake function, voice activated features for visually impaired passengers and sensors detecting path obstacles.
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With all that being said, the innovative wheelchairs are the first of its kind to be utilised in an airport within the region.
It’s worth taking note that porters (humans, that is) will still be very much present in the airport to lend assistance to disabled guests when needed.
“We continues to invest heavily in digitalisation and new technologies at our airports, as part of our commitment to delivering smooth and seamless passenger experience through the implementation of industry leading infrastructure and services,” said Abdulwahid Amiri, acting senior vice president of technology at Abu Dhabi Airports.
“Autonomous wheelchairs are among-st the latest innovations we have implemented as a company, which complement our investments in advanced immigration, security, and baggage handling technologies.”
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