CIAL Managing Director S. Suhas unveils a robot to assist passengers at the Kochi airport. | Photo credit: Special Arrangement
Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) has introduced robotic assistance as part of its efforts to improve passenger experience and convenience.
In the first phase, the passenger assistance robot was deployed at Kalangan, an art museum located in the internal security zone. CIAL Managing Director S. Suhas inaugurated the service. The robot has been developed for CIAL by Pune-based Kinetics Robotics.
The robot greets passengers, provides directions and real-time flight information, and guides them to gates and other airport facilities. Passengers can also interact with it for travel-related assistance including detailed information on CIAL services, flight schedules and gate numbers.
It will also promote the cultural heritage of Kerala by offering information on traditional art forms such as Kathakali and Ottantallal and sculptures and artworks displayed in Kalangan. Passengers will be directed to the appropriate exhibits.
In the next phase, CIAL plans to deploy robots to assist passengers in airport check-in halls. The operator is also exploring the possibility of introducing delivery robots that could deliver food and other products directly to passengers inside the terminal, according to a statement from the airport.
CIAL Executive Director Santosh Poovattil, Commercial Head Manoj P. Joseph and Kinetics Robotics representative Jignesh Nair were present.
Published – September 12, 2026 10:22 pm EST.