Emirates airline has unveiled plans to introduce multilingual check-in robots at Dubai airport, which are set to streamline passenger processing and reduce queue times. These robots will be locally developed and will complete all check-in processes, including issuing boarding cards, scanning passports through facial recognition, and even sending boarding cards to a registered number or email. According to Adel Al Redha, Emirates’ chief operating officer, the airline is set to introduce these robots within the next two months and plans to produce over 200 units over the next two years.
What’s more, Emirates’ check-in robots will be the first in the aviation industry that is portable and multilingual. Al Redha emphasized that the robots will be particularly helpful at passenger transfer and transit halls, and will be able to manage to change flights and disruptions. He also noted that the robots will be upgraded to link with immigration, allowing travellers to confirm visa status and even book hotels.
Emirates’ move towards self-service solutions and touchless check-in options is part of a wider trend among airlines to accommodate pre-pandemic levels of passengers. According to the 2022 Air Transport IT Insights report, self-service solutions remain a top priority for 92% of airlines surveyed, while touchless solutions for passengers are high on investment agendas, with 88% confirming implementation plans by 2025. Additionally, biometric identification management for passengers is a critical investment area, with 75% of airlines planning to enact solutions by 2025.
Emirates’ introduction of multilingual check-in robots is a significant step towards streamlining the passenger experience, reducing queue times, and accommodating the growing demand for air travel.
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