Kochi Airport launches robot for better passenger assistance and cultural promotion

CIAL CEO S. Suhas inaugurates passenger assistance robot at Kochi airport. | Photo credit: Special arrangement

Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) has introduced robotic assistance as part of its efforts to improve passenger services and convenience.

In the first phase, a passenger assistance robot was deployed in Kalangan, an art museum located in the Homeland Security area. CIAL Director General S. Suhas inaugurated the service. The robot was developed for CIAL by Pune-based Kinetics Robotics.

The robot greets passengers, provides real-time instructions and flight information, and guides them to boarding gates and other airport facilities. Passengers can also interact with him for travel-related assistance, including details of CIAL services, flight schedules and gate numbers.

In addition, it will promote Kerala’s cultural heritage by offering information on traditional art forms such as Kathakali and Ottanthullal, as well as the sculptures and artworks displayed at Kalangan. Passengers will be directed to the relevant exhibits.

In the next phase, CIAL plans to deploy passenger assistance robots in airport check-in halls. The operator is also exploring the introduction of delivery robots that could bring food and other products directly to passengers inside the terminal, according to a statement issued by the airport.

CIAL Managing Director Santhosh Poovattil, Advertising Head Manoj P. Joseph and Kinetics Robotics Representative Jignesh Nair were present.

Published – 12 Sep 2026 22:22 IST