AI robots that carry bags to gates at Dublin Airport will “make life easier” for passengers, according to the DAA.

Four robots are now available to use at Terminal 1 for those with disabilities, with a full rollout to all passengers expected in June.

They were named Handler Bing, Sir Bot A Lot, Bilbot Baggins and K2DC following an in-house competition with staff.

The four new AI robots unveiled at Dublin Airport today. Image: Newstalk

On Moncrieff today, Corrin Foley from the airport’s Innovative Hub said they’re simple to use.

“Passengers can come through security, then there’s going to be two iPad stations where they can call the robot and it will take about two minutes for the robot to come,” he said.

“They put their bag in, select the gate and it will bring the bags straight to the gate for you.

“It takes that extra bit of thinking and stress out of the journey.”

Robot launch an 'exciting day'

DAA Media Relations Manager Graeme McQueen said it was an “exciting day” at the airport with the launch of the four robots.

“The idea is to make passengers' lives easier, that’s what it’s all about,” he said.

“These little projects won’t change the world on their own but we want to roll out loads of stuff; loads of innovations in the terminals to make passenger journeys that little bit better.

“We want to try different things; some things will work and others won’t – but the passenger reaction to these guys so far has been really good.”

'Passengers will find it fun'

Mr McQueen said the bots can even be programmed to stop anywhere you’d like on the way to a gate.

“You can even programme it to make a stop at a shop, a bar, or a toilet along the way – the system is set up to accommodate that.

“Some passengers will find it fun; others will find it really helpful.

“It’s a positive thing and it’s going to put a smile on passengers' faces over the summer.”

The DAA will be collecting feedback on Handler Bing and his robot pals over the next few weeks before they become available for public use in June.

Additional reporting by Robert Kindregan.

Main image: The four AI robots unveiled at Dublin Airport today. Image: Newstalk.