ROMULUS, Mich. – Travelers at Detroit Metro Airport will have access to autonomous wheelchairs as part of a new pilot program to improve accessibility.
The Wayne County Airport Authority (WCAA) partnered with Unifi to offer WHILL autonomous wheelchairs in the Edward H. McNamara Terminal as an option for travelers who have difficulties walking long distances or navigating the airport.
“The introduction of WHILL autonomous wheelchairs is a major step forward in improving accessibility at DTW,” said Wayne County Airport Authority CEO Chad Newton in a release. “This collaboration with Unifi allows us to offer a cutting-edge, efficient service for customers, ensuring a smoother and more inclusive airport experience.”
Passengers will still meet with a Unifi team member when they get to the airport, who will escort the traveler through security and then bring them to the WHILL autonomous wheelchairs.
After that, the passenger will learn how to operate the wheelchair and head to their destination.
Once the passenger gets to their destination, the chair will autonomously return to its base.
The autonomous wheelchairs have several safeguards, including the following, according to the airport authority:
- Collision Avoidance: Sensors to detect obstacles and engage automatic brakes.
- Path Mapping: Pre-mapped routes to ensure safe, efficient navigation.
- Redundancy & Monitoring: Backup systems and remote supervision ensure smooth, uninterrupted operations.
- Emergency Stop: Each device is equipped with an emergency stop button for added safety.
“We are continuously exploring new innovations to enhance the customer experience,” said Unifi Chief Executive Officer Gautam Thakkar. “This pilot marks a significant step in exploring how smart technology can help us meet a range of mobility needs, allowing our teams to focus on travelers requiring more hands-on care, while offering greater independence and convenience for our other guests.”
Routes will be updated regularly to provide the most efficient service for travelers.
The airport authority says autonomous wheelchairs will also be used in the Warren Cleage Evans Terminal later this year.
The pilot program is funded in part by a grant from the Office of Future Mobility and Electrification, a division of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), as part of the Michigan Mobility Funding Platform (MMFP).
