(This article is authored by Alar, a freelance content writer) 

In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the passengers who land at the Coimbatore airport will now be greeted and guided by the robots powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI). Interestingly, Coimbatore airport is the first in Tamil Nadu to roll out the robots alongside the passengers. 

The robots were given their tasks on Thursday. The robotic technology has come into force in Coimbatore after a joint venture between the Airports Authority and 'Temi', the multinational robotics company. Two robots have been deployed- one each at the arrival and departure area. These robots will go on the airport floor and approach passengers, greet them, and ask if they need any information or assistance. 

The software has been customized to showcase the various services they want to provide to Coimbatore airport. S Senthil Valavan, Coimbatore International Airport Director, said, "Around 50 (both arrival and departure) flights are operated to and from Coimbatore daily, and the airport handles 7,200 to 7,500 passengers in a 24-hour period."

He further said, "With the introduction of the robots on Thursday, passengers convenience services, directional assistance, retail promotions, and Food & Beverage outlet information etc. If the robot is unable to answer queries, passengers shall be immediately connected to the Airport Help Desk via video call on the robot's screen."

"We are bringing the help desk to the passengers rather than passengers approaching the help desk. AAI (Airports Authority of India) introduced a similar facility at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru and this is the first time in Tamil Nadu that such AI-based robots were introduced in Coimbatore", he added. Coimbatore Airport has deployed this after Bengaluru Kempegowda International Airport introduced robots, partnered with Artiligent Solutions Pvt. Ltd.