CUSTOMER service robots could soon be whizzing around Southend Airport’s departure lounges answering queries from passengers.

Airport chiefs have bought two BEAM robots to help them help passengers.

Although they are not in use yet, the robots have been tested and it’s hoped they will soon be a regular feature at the airport.

BEAM robots main function is “Skype on wheels”, and will allow an employee to speak with customers at the airport via a screen.

Customers will be able to quiz the robots and the staff member.

And it is just one of a number of technological innovations planned at the airport.

Owners Stobart Aviation is currently working with Founders Factory to find new technology suitable for airports as well as investigating the advantages and disadvantages of using drones.

Chief executive Glyn Jones said “We are always looking forward at London Southend Airport so we can grow, and that includes exploring the latest technology to show we are forward thinking and will therefore continue to appeal to our business and leisure travellers.

“We recently bought two BEAM robots which we are currently experimenting with, and the long term aim is that they will be able to travel around the airport busily answering any customer queries.”

Major maintenance work is also set to start at the airport from today with the £10million planned work to upgrade the durability and performance of the runway.

The work has been branded essential, and will last three months.

This upgrade is part of the ambitious plan for ongoing investment to cater for increased aircraft operations, which is hoped will lead the creation of more jobs for the area.

The airport is also preparing to celebrate ten years since Stobart acquired the airport.

And an event will be held with a number of companies joining the airport for quickfire presentations on the last ten years and what the next ten years will bring.

There will be section dedicated to innovation, such as the use of BEAM robots, with a number of start-up companies set to speak on the day.