humanoids

Japan launches the 'era of humanoids' at airports

Japan Airlines (JAL) and GMO Internet Group's subsidiary (GMO AI & Robotics) are officially testing humanoid robots at Haneda Airport (Tokyo) starting May 2026. This is the first initiative of its kind in the country, aimed at addressing the acute labor shortage in ground services.

The 130 cm tall robots (produced by China's Unitree) will work alongside humans. The main advantage of humanoid form is the ability to integrate into existing infrastructure without costly terminal overhauls. The robots will move baggage containers, operate cargo securing levers, and transport passenger belongings. Thanks to AI and flexible manipulators, they can work in areas previously handled only by humans.

The program is set for two years (until 2028). In the first phase, the robots will carry out heavy physical tasks under the supervision of operators, and in 2027-2028, they plan to train them for autonomous cleaning in aircraft cabins and operating ground special equipment. The current autonomous operating time for one machine is about 2-3 hours.

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