Robots take over baggage handling at Japan's Haneda Airport as labor shortage bites

In one of Japan's busiest airports, Haneda, an unusual experiment is being launched: robots are being brought in for baggage handling. Japan Airlines has decided to test them in practice starting in May to help partially cover the acute staff shortage.

🧳 The machines will carry suitcases, load baggage, and assist on the tarmac — wherever the work is hardest and most physically demanding.

The reason is simple: the flow of tourists is growing, but there are fewer people — the population is aging, and there’s simply not enough human labor. Robots can work for several hours straight, don’t get tired, and don’t complain.