Humanoid Robots to Handle Luggage and Cleaning at Tokyo Airport

Japan Airlines and GMO AI & Robotics test humanoid robots at Haneda Airport.

Japan Airlines, in collaboration with GMO AI & Robotics, has initiated trials of humanoid robots for ground operations at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport.

The companies have begun testing robots for baggage handling and aircraft cabin cleaning. The trials will last for two years.

The project was launched amid a surge in tourism to Japan and a labour shortage due to an ageing population.

In a demonstration video, an android from the Chinese company Unitree moves cargo along a conveyor, waves, and greets those around it.

Unitree is one of China’s leading robot developers. In February, the company unveiled its flagship model H1 at a gala celebrating the Chinese Spring Festival, where the robot performed kung fu moves.

It is unknown whether Unitree is participating in the tests at Haneda Airport.

Demographic Factor

Ageing populations and declining birth rates are common issues in major cities, including Tokyo. These trends drive demand for humanoid robotics.

“These trends provide bots with opportunities to perform important and often unattractive functions in manufacturing, logistics, agriculture, healthcare, and hospitality,” noted analysts at Barclays.

According to forecasts by the OECD, Japan’s working-age population will shrink by 31% from 2023 to 2060. Mark Einstein, Director of Research at Counter Research, believes that humanoid robots will play an increasingly prominent role in Japan’s labour market.

Significant Boost

In recent years, humanoid robots have significantly expanded their capabilities, largely due to advancements in joint mechanics and artificial intelligence. They can now perform tasks that were unattainable just a few years ago.

Barclays considers physical robotics to be the “next frontier” in AI development. The bank estimates that the market could grow to $1.4 trillion by 2035, up from the current $2–3 billion.

Back in April, a humanoid robot from Honor ran a half marathon in 50 minutes and 26 seconds—six minutes faster than the men’s world record.