What:
Earlier this month, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport began testing a new robot program in conjunction with the American Association of Airport Executives Innovation Forum. Named Tracey, the robot will offer flyers tips for efficient security screening during peak travel times. Audio instructions will be in English, and animated on-screen instructions will be available in six languages.
Why It Matters:
Seattle-Tacoma is the largest airport in the Pacific Northwest and the ninth-busiest in the U.S. (In 2016, the airport served 3.4 million more passengers than in 2015.) Though this isn’t the first time a robot has delivered airport customer service — San Jose International Airport unveiled such cutting-edge technology late last year — if implemented, the program will provide much-needed help in accommodating Seattle-Tacoma’s rapid growth.
Fast Facts:
- Seattle-Tacoma officials will compile data from tracking how many times passengers trigger the body scanner during and after the pilot robot program.
- The technology is not intended to replace humans.
The Details
Port of Seattle
www.portseattle.org