Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) has launched a new robotics pilot through its XBridge technological innovation program. The airport will deploy four-legged robots outfitted with the technology to monitor indoor air quality, detect spills and full trash bins among other terminal needs. Future testing phases will focus on monitoring the autonomous devices’ ability to potentially identify biological threats as well as provide food delivery service. The robots are powered by Skild AI, a Pittsburgh-based technology firm founded by Carnegie Mellon University’s Robotics Institute and School of Computer Science faculty members Deepak Pathak and Abhinav Gupta.
“Pittsburgh is a global leader in robotics and AI. Through xBridge, we’re creating a place where that innovation can move from the lab into the airport environment and ultimately help shape the future of the industry,” said Deepak Nayyar, executive vice president and chief technology officer at PIT. “We’re looking at how the latest technology can work alongside our staff and airline partners to enhance efficiency, improve operations and provide an additional level of customer service.”
“As a Pittsburgh company, we’re proud to partner with xBridge to make Pittsburgh International a pioneer in airport robotics,” said Sara Ahmadi, head of product at Skild AI. “We share the belief that robots will transform how public infrastructure operates, and we’re grateful for the confidence they’ve put in Skild and the energy they bring to making that happen.”
“Pittsburgh is known globally for its growing tech economy, and our new industry-leading terminal continues to reflect that innovation right at the airport,” said Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato. “The airport is an economic driver for the region and xBridge is another example of that success.”
The airport will also deploy a new boarding system in partnership with Arrow Analytics and Southwest Airlines designed to help monitor overhead bin space.
“We are excited to work with the innovative team at PIT as we continue to develop our EZ-Board product and computer vision offerings for airports and airlines,” said Valerie McNeill, chief operating officer of Arrow Analytics.
