The Halifax Stanfield airport is pilot testing two custom-built passenger experience robots to improve wayfinding. The robots will physically guide users to select locations within a programmed perimeter.

Launched on August 21 by the Halifax International Airport Authority (HIAA) in partnership with city-based start-up Maritime Robotics, the custom-built robots are equipped with voice recognition and touch screen interfaces. Users can access flight information, weather, airport amenities, and more. A static wayfinding map is available if the user wants to find destinations outside the bot’s programmed perimeter.

Think WALL-E

HIAA will pilot-test the bots at the airport over the next several months and encourages travellers and visitors to try the robots during their next visit. Airport staff and volunteers already assist travellers in the Centre Court and Arrivals areas of the terminal, where both robots are stationed pre-security. The robots, HIAA says, offer an “additional layer of support for people navigating the terminal, particularly during peak times when in-person assistance may be limited”.

The project is part of its ongoing commitment to advancing the Stanfield experience by leveraging technology that improves wayfinding and helps support a seamless journey for travellers and airport visitors.

“We are pleased to partner with a local start-up to test robotic technology at our airport,” said Tiffany Chase, director of marketing, communications, and customer experience at HIAA. “This collaboration marks an exciting step toward enhancing wayfinding and elevating the passenger experience. By embracing technology solutions like these, we are prioritizing airport efficiency and innovation, with a touch of fun in the terminal. Think WALL·E with a map—and they’re pretty adorable, too.”

“Bringing this kind of innovation to our local airport is especially meaningful,” said Huijing He, director, Maritime Robotics. “It’s not just about introducing new technology — it’s about enhancing the travel experience for our community and taking a significant step toward the future of travel, powered by the people who make it possible.”