Humanoid Robots Set to Enter Ground Handling at Haneda Airport
A new era in airport ground services is beginning in Japan. JAL Ground Service and GMO AI & Robotics have announced a joint project to introduce humanoid robots into airport operations, with a pilot program set to begin at Haneda Airport in May 2026.
The testing phase, planned to continue until 2028, will evaluate robot performance in tasks such as baggage and cargo loading, aircraft underbelly operations, and cabin cleaning.
The project aims to reduce labor shortages, improve operational efficiency, and ease the physical workload on human staff. During the pilot phase, robots will be trained step by step, with integrated task execution targeted from the second half of 2027.
Two types of humanoid robots—child-sized and adult-sized—are being used in the project.
