Schiphol tests self-driving baggage vehicle
March 1, 2025
Schiphol Airport and KLM are trialling a self-driving electric baggage vehicle in a bid to streamline baggage handling and reduce strain on airport staff and systems.
The technology, supplied by Aurrigo, is designed to transport luggage more efficiently, particularly for transfer passengers with long layovers.
On an average day, Schiphol processes around 31,000 pieces of transfer baggage, with the busiest period in the morning creating significant pressure on baggage handling operations.
The new autonomous vehicle aims to alleviate this by separating bags belonging to passengers with longer transfer times from those requiring immediate connections.
Instead of being fed into the baggage system all at once, these bags will be temporarily stored and later transported to the baggage hall when needed, easing congestion.
Jan Zekveld, Senior Manager Innovation at the Royal Schiphol Group, said: “We aim to operate one of the world’s most sustainable and pioneering airports by 2050. That’s why we’re committed to creating a more sustainable, zero-emission ground operation.
“We’re replacing the vehicle fleet with a connected network of autonomous, emission-free vehicles. In doing so, we are automating all related processes. Employees will continue to play an important role in an autonomous ground operation. The work will be more varied and more directive.”
The first phase of testing began in August 2024, focusing on routes between a temporary baggage storage site and the baggage hall.
The vehicle used 3D cameras to map the airport apron, learning to navigate independently while undergoing trials on automated loading, unloading, and movement through busy airport areas.
The current phase, launched this month, sees the vehicle operating around the airport’s piers, with plans to expand testing to aircraft stands if successful.
The trial will continue until the end of 2025, with safety a key focus—each vehicle is equipped with Lidar sensors and 360-degree cameras to detect obstacles, brake in time, and maintain safe distances. A Safety Operator remains on board throughout testing to intervene if necessary.
