Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is currently conducting a pioneering 90-day pilot program that involves the use of a driverless shuttle to transport passengers between the airport terminal and the Sound Transit light rail station. This initiative marks the first of its kind at a major airport and aims to enhance the overall travel experience for passengers.
The driverless shuttles, developed by Carteav, utilize advanced navigation technology, sensors, and computer vision to operate safely in pedestrian-heavy areas. Throughout the pilot program, the shuttles are accompanied by a quality assurance engineer to ensure a smooth and secure ride for passengers.
Alongside the driverless shuttle pilot, SEA continues to offer a driver-provided cart service between the light rail station and the airport terminal. The introduction of the autonomous shuttles aims to provide travelers with additional transportation options and improve mobility and accessibility within the airport vicinity.
According to SEA, the distance between the airport terminal and the light rail station spans 950 feet, equivalent to a New York City block or 379 steps on a pedometer. The implementation of the driverless shuttles addresses the feedback received from travelers expressing the need for enhanced transportation services between these two key locations.
As part of the Sustainable Airport Master Plan, SEA envisions the development of a new ground transportation center featuring an indoor moving walkway to further streamline passenger movement within the airport premises. The autonomous shuttles are scheduled to operate on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with SEA actively seeking feedback from travelers through on-site surveys.
In addition to the driverless shuttles, SEA has already introduced self-driving, electric wheelchairs to cater to the mobility needs of travelers with disabilities. These initiatives underscore the airport’s commitment to enhancing passenger experience through innovative transportation solutions.
