The need for assistance for air passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility is steadily increasing. At a European level, an annual increase of 10% is estimated in the number of passengers requiring PRM (Persons with Reduced Mobility) assistance. In Copenhagen Airport alone, Falck performs an average of 700 assistances per day. This increased demand also leads to growing requirements and focus on PRM assistance.
Therefore, Falck is now introducing self-driving wheelchairs, designed and produced by WHILL, which will provide passengers who wish for it with safe and more self-reliant transport to their gate. The self-driving devices are, on par with traditional wheelchairs, available to all airport passengers who require assistance to cover the distance to their boarding gates.
"We are incredibly pleased that we can offer passengers who wish for it more control and an increased sense of self-reliance. Our primary goal is always to ensure a safe and good experience for everyone, and with the self-driving wheelchairs, we are giving Copenhagen Airport's passengers a new degree of independence and freedom of choice, which is another step towards more inclusive assistance,"
says Martin Betzer, Director for Falck's PRM assistance at Copenhagen Airport.
The autonomous wheelchairs are equipped with sensors and pre-scanned facility map information, ensuring safe navigation and avoiding collisions. The screen on the device allows the passenger to pause the device if needed or simply confirm its destination. Although the technology is self-driving, the wheelchairs are monitored by Falck's personnel. It is important to emphasise that this new initiative is an option, and personal assistance remains available for passengers who prefer or require a personal escort.
Travellers use the self-driving wheelchairs by contacting Falck's assistance centre, in the same way they receive help with regular travel assistance. The self-driving wheelchairs are programmed for the gate from which travellers are departing and return to the assistance centre themselves after use.
About Falck
Falck is a global healthcare company which has helped passengers with reduced mobility at Copenhagen Airport since 2008, focusing on ensuring a safe and efficient journey for everyone. Falck is dedicated to integrating innovative solutions to improve service quality.
About WHILL
WHILL enhances accessibility in locations such as airports, hospitals, theme parks, cruise ships, and convention centres. The company's offerings range from electric wheelchairs and mobility scooters to self-driving devices, designed to give users greater mobility and independence through advanced technology.
