Jakarta, INTI - Japan Airlines has begun testing humanoid robots for ground operations at Tokyo's Haneda Airport due to labor shortages. The trials, conducted in conjunction with GMO AI & Robotics, began in May to handle tasks such as baggage loading and cabin cleaning, with a planned phased implementation over two years.
In a demonstration, a humanoid robot from Unitree Robotics was able to move items on a conveyor belt and interact with workers. However, it is unclear whether the company is directly involved in the trials or simply part of the evaluation of available technology. Japan Airlines is still conducting a feasibility study and risk analysis, while Unitree has not yet commented.
Market-wise, Japan Airlines shares rose around 3% in early May, although year-to-date, they are still down around 13%. Meanwhile, Unitree previously attracted attention with a demonstration of its H1 robot at the China Spring Festival Gala in February.
Japan’s Labor Shortage
Analysts believe that Japan's aging population and low birth rate are driving the need for humanoid robots across various sectors. According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, Japan's working-age population is expected to decline by 31% between 2023 and 2060. Counterpoint's research director, Marc Einstein, believes that humanoid robots will become increasingly important in Japan’s labor market.
With the support of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's strict immigration policies, the Japanese government is expected to encourage the use of robotics and artificial intelligence (AI). This is fueled by the increase in tourists, as reported from the Japan National Tourism Organization data that showed 3.5% increase in international arrivals in March. This increases the operational burden on airports.
Despite the significant prospects, the development of humanoid robots still faces obstacles, particularly in tasks that require high precision and immature programming and reasoning skills.
Barclays calls physical robotics a new frontier in AI, with a market potential of US$1.4 trillion by 2035, up from around US$2–3 billion currently. However, human involvement is still required.
Looking ahead, Counterpoint estimates that large-scale adoption of humanoid robots could occur within the next five years as technological developments accelerate.
Conclusion
Japan Airlines begins trials on humanoid robots operating in Haneda Airport. The trial is a response to increasing international tourists and labor shortage. The humanoid robots will do tasks such as baggage loading and cabin cleaning. The humanoid robot is planned to be implemented gradually at Haneda Airport with a two-year trial period. Technical obstacles remain, and human involvement is still required, with widespread adoption expected in the next five years or so.
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