Efficiency and safety in today’s airport operations can be made possible even in limited spaces. Within the framework of this vision, autonomous passenger and baggage transport vehicles developed by Aurrigo International were fielded as a pilot application at Teesside International Airport. The two main parts of the project are Auto-ShuttleAnd Auto-DollyTugaims to transport passengers and cargo within the terminal safely, quickly and effectively. While Auto-Shuttle operates with Level 4 autonomous driving on designated routes with a capacity of 10 seats; Auto-DollyTug, on the other hand, performs the function of automatically loading ULD containers and offers a capacity of 7.5 tons with its three-trailer structure.
- High maneuverability: Provides operational flexibility with 360 degree rotation and side driving capabilities, even in narrow spaces.
- electric driving: Both vehicles are fully electric, thus reducing operational costs and carbon footprint.
- Advanced security: Improved sensors and automatic braking systems maximize the safety of passengers and luggage.
Senior officials involved in the project aim to increase the speed of apron operations and transform the passenger experience through the integration of these two vehicles. Auto-Shuttle’s level 4 autonomous driving capability provides guidance without operator intervention during passenger transportation; Auto-DollyTug automates loading and unloading processes by reducing human intervention in baggage processes. This approach indicates increased productivity on the apron.
The company aims to transform not only Teesside but the global airport ecosystem with these innovative solutions. Announcing its plans to grow with similar projects in cities such as Zurich, Stuttgart and Ottawa, Aurrigo aims to increase its production capacity and spread its autonomous vehicles to a wider range with a total investment of 14.1 million pounds. This strategy focuses on improving the passenger experience by increasing mobility in aviation logistics.
In terms of future R&D and operational expectations, Auto-Shuttle’s additional security measures and passenger safety-oriented design increase operational reliability, while Auto-DollyTug’s level of automation in loading/storage processes reduces the intensity on apron teams. This can reduce delay rates, optimize maintenance periods and increase overall airport operational efficiency. Successful completion of the pilot phase and making it available to passengers at the beginning of 2026 are among the goals. The project therefore provides a concrete business plan for the integration of automation into the daily flow of aviation.
The goals and long-term vision for the project are not limited to Teesside. Aurrigo’s global growth strategy is based on the adaptability of autonomous transport solutions to different airport configurations. Intercity collaborations and flexible solutions that adapt to infrastructure show that autonomous vehicle technology is a scalable value proposition for the aviation industry. Electric drive system and use of renewable energyIt stands out as one of the fundamental parts of an operational approach focused on reducing carbon emissions and makes operational costs more predictable in the long term. This project not only automates passenger and baggage transportation processes; It also aims to set new standards in critical areas such as maintenance, safety protocols and passenger flow design.
Additionally, Aurrigo’s collaborative solutions aim to deliver a more fluid, safe and sustainable travel experience for passengers while accelerating the adoption of autonomous technologies in the aviation industry.
