CIAL deploys robot to guide passengers, showcase Kerala’s heritage

Kochi: Passengers at Cochin International Airport may soon be able to turn to a robot for help if they lose their way to a boarding gate. Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) has introduced a passenger assistance robot at ‘Kalangan’, its art museum located in the domestic security hold area.

The robot has been designed to interact with passengers, provide flight-related information and directions, and guide them to boarding gates and other facilities within the terminal, The New Indian Express reported.

Its role, however, extends beyond passenger assistance. At Kalangan, the robot has been programmed to introduce visitors to Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. It can provide information about traditional art forms, including Kathakali and Ottanthullal, as well as details about the sculptures and other artworks displayed at the museum.

Visitors can also use the robot to locate specific exhibits inside the museum. CIAL said the deployment at Kalangan marks the first stage of its broader plan to introduce robotic assistance across the airport.

As part of the next phase, robots are expected to be deployed in the check-in halls to help passengers with directions and other airport-related information.

CIAL is also examining the possibility of using robots for delivery services within the terminal. The airport operator is exploring the deployment of robots capable of delivering food and other products directly to passengers.

The passenger assistance robot was developed for CIAL by Pune-based Kinetics Robotics. CIAL managing director S Suhas inaugurated the facility.