Hamad Airport Tests Autonomous Transport in a Regional First
Qatar Aviation Services (QAS), in collaboration with MATAR, and Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP) – a member of Qatar Foundation – launched an initiative to trial the latest autonomous transportation solutions at Hamad International Airport.
The trial run within the airport's airside operations marks a first for the region.
The proof-of-concept trials, which started its initial autonomous staff bus trials testing from Sunday, February 16, will integrate cutting-edge autonomous vehicles, including an autonomous bus and an autonomous baggage tractor, the airport said.
Equipped with advanced technologies such as GPS, AI-driven systems, and various intelligent sensors and lidars, these vehicles are designed to enhance operational safety and efficiency.
Their capabilities include 24/7 operations under diverse weather conditions, real-time monitoring, and automated charging systems.
Hamad Ali Al Khater, Chief Operating Officer at Hamad International Airport, said the airport is proud to lead the way by trialling autonomous vehicles.
'We are excited to lead the way into a future where technology and mobility seamlessly converge and look forward to a successful outcome through collaboration with our key stakeholders,' he said.
Murat Nursel, Senior Vice President at QAS, said the agency has an ambitious vision for the years ahead – one that demands a company-wide commitment to execution and innovation.
'The testing of autonomous vehicles, in collaboration with MATAR and Qatar Science & Technology Park, underscores our dedication to supporting our nation's vision, while enhancing operational efficiency,' he said.
Dr Jack Lau, President of QSTP, said the collaboration demonstrates not only the company's commitment to advancing technology, but also to driving the digital transformation of one of the world's most complex and high-risk sectors – aviation.
'The Level 4 autonomous vehicle solutions being trialled at Hamad International Airport are developed within QSTP to shape the future of smart mobility.
As we push the boundaries of technological excellence, initiatives like this align seamlessly with Qatar National Vision 2030, reinforcing our collective role in fostering a sustainable, tech-driven economy,' he said.
Hamad International Airport said the successful implementation of this proof-of-concept project will lay the foundation for expanding the autonomous fleet.
Also read: Qatar Airways Employee Arrested for Carrying Bullets At Lahore Airport
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