JAL Tests Humanoid Robots for Ground Handling at Haneda Airport

JAL Launches Groundbreaking Robot Trial at Haneda

Japan Airlines will begin testing humanoid robots at Tokyo Haneda Airport in May 2026, partnering with GMO AI & Robotics Trading in Japan's first airport tarmac robotics experiment. The initiative addresses critical labor shortages in ground handling operations amid an aging population and rising travel demand.

Three-Year Trial Focuses on Physical Tasks

The trial, running through 2028, will deploy China-made bipedal robots capable of operating continuously for two to three hours. Initial tasks include pushing cargo containers, loading and unloading baggage, and operating ground equipment. JAL Ground Service President Yoshiteru Suzuki said replacing physically demanding tasks will "inevitably reduce workers' burden" while humans continue handling irreplaceable safety management duties.

Robots Designed for Existing Infrastructure

The project aims to eventually halve staffing requirements by using human-shaped robots that integrate with existing airport infrastructure without major modifications. A media demonstration at Haneda on April 27 showcased a robot pushing cargo containers. GMO AI & Robotics will supply hardware and programming through its Shibuya research facility to address what the company calls "serious labor shortages in back-end operations."