Royal Schiphol Group, in collaboration with KLM, is deploying a new self-driving baggage vehicle from Aurrigo International plc to help it optimize the separation of passenger baggage with long transfer times.
To transport baggage streams efficiently, Schiphol is testing an all-electric, self-driving baggage vehicle supplied by Aurrigo to transport luggage from passengers with long layovers from the aircraft to a temporary, secured storage location.
The first phase of the Auto-DollyTug trial began in August last year, testing the route from the temporary baggage storage area to a secure storage location. At the appropriate time, the autonomous vehicle then delivers the baggage to the baggage hall, where it can be entered into the system and further processed by the connecting fleet.
During this time, the vehicle mapped the platform environment using 3D cameras and learned how to navigate independently. Step-by-step aspects were trialed, such as autonomously picking up and dropping off containers and maneuvering through the busy baggage hall.
“Schiphol is committed to creating a more sustainable, emission-free ground operation. We are replacing our entire vehicle fleet with a connected network of autonomous, emission-free vehicles,” commented Jan Zekveld, senior manager innovation at Royal Schiphol Group.
“By doing so we automate all related processes. Even in an autonomous ground operation, employees will continue to play a crucial role, with their work becoming more varied and supervisory.”
The latest testing involves Aurrigo’s Auto-DollyTug operating on the pier, where it will navigate denser traffic. If this is successful, the test routes will be expanded, and eventually, the vehicle will be tested at aircraft stands by the end of 2025.
The autonomous vehicle is equipped with LiDAR sensors and 360-degree cameras, enabling it to navigate safely among other traffic, brake in time, and maintain distance. For safety purposes, an operator will always be present in the vehicle during the trial to intervene if necessary.
Professor David Keene, CEO of Aurrigo International plc, commented: “Working with forward-thinking partners like Schiphol and KLM to bring autonomous solutions to real-world aviation challenges is very exciting.
“The work we are doing demonstrates a fantastic use case for our self-driving Auto-DollyTug, showcasing how automation can enhance efficiency while supporting the workload for baggage handlers and easing pressure on airport systems. We’re proud to support Schiphol’s vision for a smarter, more sustainable future in ground operations.”
About Aurrigo International
Aurrigo International plc, headquartered in Coventry, UK, is a technology-driven company specializing in autonomous and automated solutions for the aviation and automotive industries. Established as part of the RDM Group, it has been in business for over 30 years, developing airside ground handling systems, baggage transportation, and autonomous vehicle solutions. Aurrigo serves major airports, airlines, logistics providers, and automotive manufacturers, focusing on efficiency and sustainability through automation. Aurrigo has expanded globally, working with clients across North America, Europe, and Asia. As of recent financial reports, its annual revenue exceeds £10 million, with continuous growth driven by increased demand for innovative mobility solutions.
About Royal Schiphol Group
Royal Schiphol Group Royal Schiphol Group, established in 1920, is a Dutch airport management company headquartered in North-Holland, Netherlands. It owns and operates several airports, including Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, Rotterdam The Hague Airport, and Lelystad Airport, and holds significant stakes in Eindhoven Airport and Maastricht Aachen Airport. Internationally, the group invests in Brisbane Airport Hobart Airport and operates Terminal 4 at New York’s JFK International Airport. The company provides services such as aviation infrastructure, consumer products, real estate, and security facilities, serving domestic and international airlines, passengers, and logistics providers. In 2018, Royal Schiphol Group reported a revenue of €1.509 billion. The company’s ownership is divided among the Dutch State, the Municipality of Amsterdam, Groupe ADP, and the Municipality of Rotterdam.