Pune: In a first-of-its-kind initiative, Pune International Airport has begun trial runs of a social humanoid robot within its terminal premises. The artificial intelligence-powered machine, developed by Speko MI-1 in collaboration with Muks Robotics, is being evaluated for its efficiency in assisting airport operations. Officials are assessing whether the robot can support security processes and provide essential flight-related information to passengers. The testing phase is aimed at examining its real-time responsiveness, interaction skills, and overall reliability in a busy airport setting, marking a significant step toward integrating advanced automation into passenger services.
The robot was assembled at the airport on Friday after its components were transported to the site. Soon after installation, technical teams initiated trials to evaluate its performance under varying conditions, including passenger movement, ambient noise, and crowd density. The initial testing phase is expected to continue for two to three days. Authorities are closely monitoring its functioning near the entry gates, check-in counters, boarding areas, and baggage claim sections to ensure smooth navigation and communication across key passenger touchpoints within the terminal building during peak operational hours.
Designed to operate with minimal human supervision, the humanoid robot is equipped to guide travelers independently across expansive terminal areas. If a passenger appears uncertain, it can accompany them to their designated location, offering step-by-step assistance. The system is programmed to provide updates on flight schedules, departure status, gate changes, delays, and baggage belt numbers. It supports multiple languages, including Hindi, English, Marathi, Tamil, and Telugu, enabling seamless communication with travelers from different regions. Additionally, the robot is capable of identifying unusual movements and assisting in managing heavy crowds effectively.