Schiphol and KLM Test Self-Driving Shuttle Service for Flight Crew

Innovative Transport for Flight Crew

Today marks the beginning of the second phase of trials for electric self-driving shuttles at Schiphol Airport. In collaboration with KLM Cityhopper and KLM Ground Services, the airport is testing a pre-programmed route to and from the apron. This service will transport KLM Cityhopper crew members arriving at Schiphol, following a successful initial trial earlier this year with supplier Ohmio.

Focus on Complex Settings

From Technical Features to Operational Use

During the first phase, the emphasis was on evaluating technical features and usability. The current phase involves testing in the apron area, a more complex environment with high levels of activity, including aircraft movements and various flight operations. The goal is to assess the shuttle's performance in a dynamic setting where punctuality and safety are paramount.

Advanced Technology for Safe Navigation

Equipped with Sensors and Cameras

The self-driving shuttle operates several times a day, picking up crew from Apron A and dropping them at the terminal. The vehicle uses sensors, special cameras, and GPS for navigation, boasting a 360-degree view with LIDAR technology. This setup allows the shuttle to detect and avoid obstacles up to 30 meters away.

Jan Zekveld's Perspective

“It’s great that we’ve been able to follow up on the trial with the self-driving buses so soon. We’re curious about the insights we’ll gain at this location, particularly because punctuality and safety are crucial on this route. We’re also curious how airline crew members experience self-driving transport. This will help to build trust in the technology and potentially facilitate future integration of other self-driving vehicles,” said Jan Zekveld, Head of Innovation at Schiphol.

Maarten Koopmans' Enthusiasm

“I’m very enthusiastic about this trial and think it’s great that our crew can test this innovative, self-driving bus. KLC has always set the trend in implementing the latest technologies, and this innovation also fits in perfectly with KLM’s aim to achieve emission-free ground handling by 2030,” added Maarten Koopmans, Managing Director of KLM Cityhopper.

Towards Emission-Free Ground Operations

Sustainability Goals for 2050

Royal Schiphol Group aims to operate the most sustainable and high-quality airports globally by 2050. This includes achieving emission-free ground operations, with a vision of replacing all vehicles with autonomous, zero-emission models and automating associated processes. While ground operations will become autonomous, staff will continue to play crucial supervisory roles, ensuring the smooth functioning of varied tasks.