Story perspectives

Japan Deploys Humanoid Robots for Baggage at Haneda

4/29/2026

Summary

Japan Deploys Airport Robots

Japan will deploy 130 cm Unitree humanoid robots at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport from May 2026 through 2028.
The robots will move baggage carts, load cargo and transport luggage on the tarmac.
Haneda handles over 60 million passengers annually, creating ground-operation strain amid a labour shortage.
Japan Airlines says the trial aims to lessen employee strain and improve efficiency, while human staff retain safety checks and coordination.

Summary

Japan Airlines Automates

Japan Airlines announced on April 27 a partnership with GMO AI & Robotics, showcasing a 51-inch robot loading cargo onto a conveyor belt.
GMO AI & Robotics president Tomohiro Uchida said the venture will halve ground-staff numbers, assigning robots physically demanding work while humans keep safety-critical duties.
Japan Airlines will later deploy the humanoids for cabin cleaning and other ground-support tasks to address a worsening labour shortage amid rising tourism.

Summary

JAL Leads Trial

The JAL subsidiary will lead a two-year robot trial at Haneda Airport.
GMO AI & Robotics says its purpose is the social implementation of artificial intelligence and robotics.
Humanoid robots were chosen because they fit existing airport facilities and aircraft layouts without major modifications.
The phased test will map safe zones, run repeated real-world checks, and target autonomous operation and broader ground-support duties.

History

Historical Context

BNP Associates invented the first automated baggage system in 1971, which Denver International Airport installed when it opened in February 1995. United Airlines said the Siemens system moved only 1,200 bags per hour in February 2005, under its 2,500-bag design, causing delays and a shutdown in September 2005. To avoid that outcome, Japan Airlines and GMO AI & Robotics are testing Unitree’s 130 cm humanoid robots at Haneda Airport in 2024.

1 of 4

Japan Deploys Airport Robots

Japan will deploy 130 cm Unitree humanoid robots at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport from May 2026 through 2028.
The robots will move baggage carts, load cargo and transport luggage on the tarmac.
Haneda handles over 60 million passengers annually, creating ground-operation strain amid a labour shortage.
Japan Airlines says the trial aims to lessen employee strain and improve efficiency, while human staff retain safety checks and coordination.

1 / 4