MADRID, Oct. 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — A&K Robotics, an autonomous micromobility company, and Aena, the world's largest airport operator by passenger numbers, announce a collaboration agreement to pilot Cruz mobile pods at Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suarez Airport (MAD). This strategic deployment marks a major step forward in transforming the future of airport mobility and improving the travel experience for millions of passengers.
Madrid-Barajas, one of Europe's busiest airports and a key hub in Aena's global portfolio of 46 airports in Spain and 32 abroad, will pilot five autonomous Cruz pods from A&K Robotics as part of its bold innovation strategy. The initiative aims to reimagine and personalize the passenger experience while prioritizing accessibility, sustainability and technology leadership.
“Our goal is to shape the future of air travel based on accessibility and personalization,” said Pablo López Loches, head of ideas and entrepreneurship at Aena. “This collaboration with A&K Robotics reflects our commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technologies that redefine the passenger experience and support our vision of sustainable and seamless mobility.”
The deployment of Cruz pods at MAD follows the successful deployment of A&K at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and pilot programs at other leading international hubs. With the ability to navigate autonomously, adapt to challenging airport environments, and provide safe and dignified transportation for passengers with disabilities, Cruz pods set a new standard for ease and convenience in airports.
“We are building a world where robots improve everyday life by providing more inclusive, efficient and enjoyable experiences,” said Jessica Yip, chief operating officer of A&K Robotics. “Our partnership with Aena signals an inflection point not only for our company’s growth, but also for the global aviation industry’s transition to smart, human-centric mobility.”
Designed to scale quickly and seamlessly integrate with airport operations, A&K Robotics technology also helps airports meet sustainability and accessibility requirements. The Cruz platform provides modular deployment options to help operators address diverse mobility needs with flexibility and precision.
About A&K Robotics
A&K Robotics designs and manufactures electric, autonomous mobility platforms that empower people and transform public spaces. Its unmanned robotic pods are powered by Kinesos artificial intelligence, the company's foundation for socially intelligent autonomy, helping people with limited mobility move independently and comfortably in challenging environments such as airports, shopping malls and museums. With a focus on human-centered design, sustainability and inclusive innovation, A&K is redefining how people move around the world. Find out more at www.aandkrobotics.com
About En
Aena is the world's largest airport operator by passenger numbers, operating a network of 46 airports and 2 helipads in Spain. It also operates London Luton Airport and 17 airports in Brazil, including Congonhas Airport, the country's second busiest by passenger traffic. In total, Aena now operates 20% of Brazil's air traffic and is also involved in the operation of 14 more airports in the Americas.
As a global leader in airport services management, Aena stands out for its proven experience, operational capabilities and highly qualified professional team providing comprehensive services of the highest quality. Its airports are considered among the most modern and functional in the world, equipped with the latest technology, a variety of shopping and dining options, full accessibility and internationally recognized services to assist passengers with disabilities.
Aena is a responsible company that plays a strategic role as an economic driver in the regions surrounding its airports. The company is firmly committed to sustainable growth and long-term development. Its mission is to operate the safest, most efficient, sustainable and welcoming airports in the world, acting as catalysts for economic activity and tourism, while creating value for shareholders, customers and society at large.
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The video accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9077f32b-9b6c-4ca3-8d3b-7200ee25db57
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