Autonomous Wheelchairs Arrive at Detroit Metro Airport, Expanding Access for Travelers with Mobility Needs

April 15, 2025

Detroit Metro Airport's McNamara Terminal is deploying autonomous wheelchairs developed by Whill Inc. through a partnership between Delta subsidiary Unifi Aviation LLC and the Wayne County Airport Authority. Starting Monday, these wheelchairs will offer passengers with limited mobility the ability to navigate independently using a control pad, equipped with safety features like collision-avoidance sensors and emergency stop buttons.

Who is affected

Elders and disabled travelers with limited mobility
Parents balancing carry-ons with children
Travelers who previously struggled with airport navigation
Airport staff who previously had to transport passengers manually
Detroit community members who have historically faced mobility barriers
Unifi Aviation LLC team members who will assign the wheelchairs to passengers

What action is being taken

Autonomous wheelchairs are being deployed at Detroit Metro Airport's McNamara Terminal
Unifi Aviation LLC team members are assigning the chairs to passengers on-site
The Wayne County Airport Authority is implementing this technology as part of a pilot program
The wheelchairs are operating with passenger-controlled navigation systems
The equipment is automatically returning to base stations after completing journeys
The program is being funded through a grant from Michigan's Office of Future Mobility and Electrification

Why it matters

The initiative promotes equity and inclusion for travelers with mobility challenges
It provides passengers with increased independence and dignity rather than depending solely on staff assistance
The technology addresses long-standing mobility barriers in transportation systems
It represents Detroit's participation in transportation innovation, challenging narratives that innovation bypasses the city
The program reflects a collaborative approach between public institutions and private companies
It transforms the airport experience for vulnerable travelers who have historically been marginalized

What's next

The Whill wheelchairs will be added to the Evans Terminal later this year
No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle