In line with the collaboration, Munich Airport has been trialling a remote-controlled passenger bridge since mid-October.
During the six-month pilot phase, various real-life conditions, such as weather influences or obstacles in the stairway’s driving area, will be tested using the modified passenger bridge. Over the longer term, the plan is to equip all bridges at the German airport with innovative control systems, with Jost Lammers, CEO of Munich Airport saying “the close and collaborative partnership” is enabling the organisations to “develop forward-thinking solutions and sustainably strengthen Munich Airport.”
In addition to the “remote” approach, a fully automated, AI-supported control system is also being considered for Terminal 2. The test phase for this part of the project will see the passenger bridge operated from a container set up as a temporary control centre connecting initially to an aircraft mock-up.
An additional project will see the introduction of a device to assist with unloading for the baggage handling system in Terminal 2. This optimised system enables more efficient handling of luggage and freight by easing the transport between baggage carts and the baggage claim belt. It is also expected to significantly reduce the physical workload for employees in operational areas, as they no longer need to lift bags and suitcases by hand from baggage carts.
Jens Ritter, CEO of Lufthansa Airlines concluded: “It is a significant step to take a leading role at our Munich hub. Our goal is to offer our guests a premium travel experience – automation and the focus on future technologies are key pieces of the puzzle on our way there.”
Photo: Munich Airport
