Schiphol Airport Introduces Self-Driving Wheelchairs for Travelers with Reduced Mobility

As of this week, Schiphol Airport is testing self-driving wheelchairs to help travelers with reduced mobility independently reach their gates. This innovative service, introduced in collaboration with WHILL, aims to enhance the travel experience for those with physical challenges by offering them greater independence.

How It Works

Travelers can find these autonomous wheelchairs at three locations in Lounge 2 and 3, located just after passport control in the non-Schengen area. The process is simple: passengers sit down, fasten their seatbelt, and enter their gate number. The wheelchair then autonomously navigates the airport, avoiding obstacles and ensuring a smooth ride.

Upon arrival, the wheelchair returns automatically to its starting point, ready for the next user. The service is free of charge, requires no prior booking, and is available between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on weekdays.

Enhancing Accessibility at Schiphol

Patricia Vitalis, Executive Director of Operations at Schiphol, highlighted the significance of the project:

“Autonomous vehicles play an important part in the airport of the future... The self-driving wheelchairs allow travelers with reduced mobility to move around the airport independently, without the need for an assistant.”

This trial, running for one year, aims to evaluate the integration of self-driving wheelchairs into Schiphol’s operations, while also gathering feedback from users to improve the service.

Features of the Self-Driving Wheelchair

• Baggage rack for hand luggage
• Sensors for obstacle detection
• Emergency button for added safety
• Seatbelt to secure passengers

In case travelers require assistance, staff from Axxicom Airport Caddy will be available to help.

Future Plans

Schiphol will gradually expand the service over the coming months, with additional trials testing the wheelchair’s use in lifts and offering it to arriving travelers. Schiphol is also exploring the possibility of making this service a permanent feature of the airport and will launch a market consultation to evaluate the potential.

This self-driving wheelchair initiative is part of Schiphol’s continuous efforts to make the airport more accessible and provide a seamless experience for all travelers.