Though human- and animal-like robots might one day make ideal travel companions for some passengers, an increasing number of airlines are banning them from both the cabin and checked baggage over safety concerns.
United Airlines and Delta Air Lines have both announced a total ban on the devices, joining Southwest Airlines, which introduced a similar policy earlier this year.
Travellers who rejoiced at the prospect of a travel companion that does not hog the armrest, complain about the middle seat, or eat messily will have to accept that, for now, the risks posed by these robots outweigh their advantages. Most are indeed powered by large lithium-ion batteries, which can overheat, catch fire or even explode if damaged or improperly handled.
While passengers are already subject to strict rules governing lithium batteries on aircraft, airlines say the size, weight and design of humanoid robots present additional safety challenges.
Although still rare, there have already been cases of travellers flying with humanoid companions. Southwest Airlines became the first major US carrier to prohibit the devices after welcoming a humanoid robot on board earlier this year.
While the robot quickly became a social media sensation, securing it for take-off reportedly proved difficult, delaying the flight and highlighting practical as well as safety concerns.
Since then, more airlines have adopted similar restrictions. Delta introduced its ban in June, followed by United in July.
In a statement, Delta said it “does not permit human- or animal-like robotic devices to be transported in the aircraft cabin or as checked baggage”. The airline added that it is “continually reviewing emerging technologies” and updating its policies accordingly.
Delta explained that the prohibition applies to robotic devices powered by lithium batteries that exceed the allowed watt-hour limits, which present safety and security risks. The airline also noted that the devices do not qualify as assistive devices and do not meet the definition of trained service animals under applicable regulations.
United described its policy to CBS News as a proactive measure, saying the ban was introduced “in case such tech becomes more widely used in everyday life”. The airline stressed that the decision was not prompted by any specific incident but was intended “to ensure the safety of our customers and crew”.
United also told The Independent that automated devices and certain robotic toys remain permitted, provided they comply with baggage size restrictions and existing lithium battery safety requirements.
While most leisure travellers are unlikely to be affected, the restrictions are creating headaches for scientists and robotics researchers who regularly transport prototypes for demonstrations and conferences.
Ravinder Dahiya, professor of robotics at Northeastern University’s College of Engineering, told CBS News that while safety must come first, the restrictions create practical difficulties for researchers. “As a researcher, you desire to carry out your research freely, without hindrance,” he said, noting that “sometimes you have to take robots along with you for demonstrations.”
Delta has indicated that the ban is not necessarily permanent, leaving the door open to future generations of robots or safer battery technologies. So far, not all airlines have followed suit – American Airlines and JetBlue have yet to introduce similar restrictions. But if Elon Musk is right and humanoid robots are the future, aviation will need a safer battery technology to match.
