Digitalization: passenger focus, artificial intelligence, and automation

We use a wide range of digital technologies to continuously enhance services for travelers, increase process efficiency, and promote innovation at Munich Airport.

Digital solutions for our passengers

JEEVES – the digital assistant

Since March 2024, the autonomous service robot JEEVES – also known as the «Snackbot» – has been offering snacks and beverages in Terminal 2. When approached, it communicates via pre-programmed sentences displayed on its screen. A touchscreen allows users to purchase items using common cashless payment methods. Developed by the Munich-based start-up Robotise for use in the hospitality and healthcare sectors, the robot is now being tested at an airport for the first time over a one-year period.

«Passngr» app

With the «Passngr» app, we have created a central digital platform for travelers, providing essential information related to flying. «Passngr» offers real-time updates on departure and arrival times, navigation assistance within the terminal, current security checkpoint information, and exclusive offers in food outlets and shops. The version released in 2024 includes updated indoor maps, helping passengers orient themselves, for example, at the gate before departure. The app is being continuously developed and adapted to the needs of travelers.

App clips

Since December 2024, Munich Airport has been testing so-called «mini apps.» These provide access to core functions of the Passngr app without a full download. They are especially useful for connecting passengers who need quick and easy access to key services such as navigation assistance or gate-related service information.

Automation and robotics in operations

The autonomous apron

This program tests autonomous vehicles and machines to automate and optimize operations on the apron. The goal is to define a roadmap for expanding autonomous applications, digital infrastructure, processes, and the technologies in use. Examples include autonomous baggage tugs and snow removal vehicles. In 2024, we began validating selected measures through various test phases. 

Passenger boarding bridges

At Munich Airport, (semi-)autonomous passenger boarding bridges – which can be remotely operated to and from aircraft – will be used in the future. Since mid-October 2024, a practical test of a remotely controlled passenger boarding bridge has been underway on the apron of Terminal 2. Following a successful pilot phase, this project will be advanced further in 2025.

Foundations for innovation

Data Lake

To manage large volumes of operational data efficiently and in a structured way, Munich Airport introduced a «Data Lake» platform in 2024. This system consolidates a wide range of data sources, aggregates the results, and evaluates them – for example, passenger flow data, terminal occupancy, or energy consumption. The tool supports data-based decision-making and continuous process optimization.

Learning Experience Platform

A digital Learning Experience Platform has been launched for internal training. Since March of this year, it has offered interactive training content, enabling employees to continue their education in a flexible and dynamic format. The platform covers a wide range of topics – from technical content and soft skills to safety-related training. It promotes continuous personal and professional development within the workforce while also ensuring knowledge transfer across the organization.

AI Code of Ethics

Munich Airport is establishing the necessary framework for the responsible use of AI applications. In 2024, for example, an AI Code of Ethics was developed. This framework ensures that AI applications at the airport always align with ethical principles such as transparency, data protection, and fairness. With this, we have committed ourselves to promoting the responsible use of artificial intelligence and to continuously reviewing and expanding its use.

«Airports 4 Innovation»

As part of the «Airports 4 Innovation» alliance, Munich Airport – together with other airport operators such as Rome, Vancouver, Dubai, and Tokyo Narita – is actively promoting innovation. In a global call to various start-ups, the airport operators jointly sought innovative solutions in 2024 on the topics of «Seamless Travel Experience,» «Intermodality and Connectivity,» «Baggage of the Future,» and «Data Integration between Airports and Airlines.» The goal is to continuously improve the passenger experience, implement efficient technologies, and establish new long-term standards in the aviation industry. The winning solutions from the start-up competition are scheduled for implementation in pilot projects in 2025.