Schiphol Airport, in collaboration with KLM Cityhopper and KLM Ground Services, has commenced the second phase of a trial for electric self-driving buses. This phase involves a fixed, pre-programmed route transporting KLM Cityhopper crew between the apron and the terminal. The initial phase, conducted earlier this year, focused on testing the technical features and usability of the buses provided by supplier Ohmio.
The current phase takes place in a more complex environment, where multiple operations occur simultaneously, including aircraft arrivals, departures, and crew transport. The self-driving buses are equipped with sensors, cameras, and LIDAR technology, providing a 360-degree view to detect and navigate around objects up to 30 meters away. The buses will operate several times daily until the end of July, moving flight crew from Apron A to the terminal.
Jan Zekveld, Head of Innovation Schiphol, says: “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 is 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 facilitates future integration of other self-driving vehicles.”
Maarten Koopmans, Managing Director KLM Cityhopper, adds: “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.”
Royal Schiphol Group has set a long-term objective to operate the most sustainable and high-quality airports globally by 2050. This includes a transition to autonomous, zero-emission vehicles for ground operations, with staff adopting supervisory roles as part of a broader move towards automation.
Photo: credit KLM
