Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Miami International Airport (MIA) have deployed cutting-edge technology to give passengers with reduced mobility (PRM) increased agency at the airports. This is the result of a collaboration between Envoy Air, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Airlines Group and WHILL, specialists in developing electric mobility devices.
WHILL and Envoy Air have been working together since late 2022, seeking to give more independence to passengers with accessibility challenges. It was recently announced, MIA and LAX will be pioneers in the introduction of the mobility focused service in airports.
The autonomous chairs enable passengers to select a desired destination on a touch screen (this could be a boarding gate) and the chair will safely transports the customer to their chosen location without the need to wait for staff to assist. The self-driving mobility device elevates customer experience, giving passengers increased agency, freedom, and independence.
Shane Bogni, Vice President of Business Development at WHILL Mobility Services, North America, said:
“We are thrilled to bring cutting-edge technology and innovation to two of American’s busiest hubs […] Our autonomous mobility services offer customers increased independence, reduced wait times, and an enhanced customer experience.”
The self-drive service also helps to bridge any manpower gaps, freeing up staff for other responsibilities while the location and status of mobility vehicles are monitored in real time ensuring passenger safety.
For more like this see:
- Glasgow Airport catalyses accessibility technology development
- United’s next steps for improving accessibility
- Augmented Reality at PDX supporting travellers with diverse needs
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