In Russia, Robot Meteorologist Developed for Airports
The digital assistant evaluates weather-related risks for a particular airport in real time.
Specialists at the Situatsionno-Informatsionnyy Tsentr Mintransa Rossii (Situation and Information Center of the Russian Transport Ministry) are developing a robot capable of forecasting weather conditions and associated risks. The AI processes data from Roshydromet and, within a minute, generates a forecast of hazardous weather for a particular airport.
The system takes into account each airport’s geographic characteristics and factors such as strong crosswinds or squalls, heavy rainfall and precipitation, snowfall and blizzards, fog, and severe turbulence. The digital assistant is designed to help operators respond quickly to weather risks, monitor potentially dangerous zones, and enhance overall passenger safety.
Expansion to Other Modes of Transport
The platform is currently being tested using data from all regions of the country. Developers plan to enhance the robot’s analytical capabilities and expand its functionality. According to Alexander Kislyakov, director of the ministry’s Situation and Information Center, officials are discussing potential deployment of the system across other modes of transport.
The use of robotic technologies for various tasks has already become common practice at Russian airports. At St. Petersburg’s Pulkovo Airport, for example, autonomous baggage tractors are in operation, and pilot projects are underway for unmanned perimeter patrol rovers and robotic cleaning systems. In the future, the airport also plans to introduce autonomous snowplows and mowing vehicles.
