Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) has launched a robotic ambassador for its LAXOrderNow.com online food and beverage ordering service.
The pilot has been launched in partnership with Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW) and will see the two-wheeled semi-autonomous robot, called NomNom, assist with the LAX Order Now delivery service.
NomNom is a cargo robot that is able to carry up to 40 pounds of food at a time as it follows behind delivery staff from AtYourGate, which delivers food ordered via LAX Order Now. The robot can move at speeds up to 6mph and uses a series of cameras and sensors to recognise and follow its handler throughout the airport.
The LAX Order Now service offers contactless order pickup from LAX restaurants, with optional delivery available directly to the gate areas in select terminals. Guests can scan QR codes throughout the terminals or visit LAXOrderNow.com to browse menus, place an order and pay.
When checking out, passengers in eligible terminals can select the delivery option for an additional fee. Customers will be notified on their mobile device when orders are on their way and when they arrive in the designated gate area, and each participating restaurant will provide an estimated delivery time to help ensure food arrives prior to departing.
At Your Gate delivery team members, and NomNom, wear branding to be identified easily and connect quickly with guests who place orders.
The robot is another way LAX is tapping into new technology and innovations to support the overall passenger experience.
