Incheon Airport Introduces World's First Autonomous Self Check-In Robots, Expected to Reduce Waiting Times

Self Check-In, Guide and Patrol, and Docent Robots
31 Autonomous Robots Now in Full Operation
Integration of Generative AI, 5G Private Network, and Digital Twin
Enhancing Passenger Flow and Airport Security

Incheon International Airport is taking the lead in innovating passenger-tailored services by deploying self check-in robots equipped with autonomous driving technology, the first of their kind in the world.

Photo of using a self check-in robot. Incheon International Airport Corporation

On May 18, Incheon International Airport Corporation announced that it has introduced 31 units across three new types of autonomous robots, which officially began operation this month.

The next-generation robots introduced this time include the self check-in robot, the guide and patrol robot, and the docent robot. These follow AirStar, the guide robot commercialized by Incheon Airport in 2018 as a world first, and feature further advancements in autonomous driving, artificial intelligence (AI), 5G, and digital twin technologies.

The core service, the autonomous self check-in robot, differs from the previous method where passengers had to locate a stationary kiosk. Instead, these robots move directly to crowded check-in counters to provide check-in services. As they can flexibly change their position according to passenger flow without spatial limitations, the robots are expected to improve passenger circulation within the terminal and reduce waiting times.

The guide and patrol robots are equipped with generative AI (large language model) technology, enabling natural voice conversations with passengers. They provide facility and flight information in four languages (Korean, English, Chinese, and Japanese) and offer interpretation in six languages (Korean, English, Chinese, Japanese, French, and Spanish). In normal operations, these robots offer destination escort services and AR/AI commemorative photo shoots, and in emergencies, they switch to patrol mode, live-streaming on-site situations to the control center in real time.

The docent robots, serving as cultural guides, explain exhibits and airport facilities using multilingual images and audio at Terminal 1 Transportation Center and Terminal 2 Apron Control Tower.

To ensure stable real-time data transmission for these robots, the corporation has established a 5G private network with ultra-low latency. Additionally, a digital twin-based integrated control platform has been introduced, providing a comprehensive view of all robot locations, statuses, and terminal congestion, thereby enabling optimal deployment of robots as needed.

Kim Beomho, Acting President and CEO of Incheon International Airport Corporation, stated, "With the world's first deployment of self check-in robots, we are presenting a new paradigm of 'proactive airport services that approach passengers.' Moving forward, Incheon Airport will continue to actively adopt advanced technologies such as AI, 5G, and autonomous driving to innovate passenger services and become the world's leading digital airport."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.