Pentastar Aviation has become the first aviation company to deploy autonomous wingwalking robots in day-to-day operations, using technology developed by Airtrek Robotics at its facility in Waterford, Michigan.
The robots move alongside aircraft during towing operations to monitor surroundings and identify potential obstacles, providing ground crews with greater visibility as they navigate ramp and hangar environments. Traditionally, wingwalkers are positioned near an aircraft’s wings during towing to communicate clearance and hazards to the tug operator.
“Our high standard for safety requires precision and constant awareness, and Airtrek has created a solution that complements our crew and their expertise,” said Ben Hammond, vice president of FBO services at Pentastar Aviation.
Chris Lee, co-founder and CEO of Airtrek Robotics, said: “Pentastar brought that real-world perspective to our development process, lending essential operational expertise that enabled us to refine how this technology works in practice. Together, we’ve created a new approach to a longstanding component of aircraft ground operations that, we believe, will become a model for others across the industry.”
Deployment began this month with full implementation expected by the fourth quarter of 2026.
