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Robotic Mower Being Tested at Victoria International Airport

Apr 26, 2018

Next time you come out to Victoria International Airport (YYJ), you may catch a glimpse of “Moe”, a Husqvarna robotic mower currently being tested on airport grounds.

The initiative is a collaboration between Victoria Airport Authority (VAA) and its landscaping contractor, Island Earth Landscape.  The Husqvarna Group created the robotic mower in 1995 by introducing the solar mower and it was the world’s first-ever robotic mower.  Today, the group is celebrating that a total of one million robotic mowers have been sold since its introduction.  While currently much more popular in Europe, they are sure to continue to gain popularity in North America. 

Using a boundary and guidewires along with an onboard GPS system, Moe defines the work area, registers areas completed and adjusts its cut pattern accordingly.  Built-in sensors using ultrasonic technology detect objects and lower the speed to avoid any hard collisions.  When it’s time to recharge, Moe simply finds its way back to its docking station located in a small secure house in the grass.

The use of GPS technology also means that the robotic mower cannot be taken.  A password is required to operate and it will notify its Tech Handler via text message to a SmartPhone if it’s picked up or moved.  Location is also tracked using Google Maps. 

For YYJ, as a good environmental steward of airport lands, the initiative makes great sense. “The mower is easy on the environment, quiet and can virtually run anytime including at night and in the rain.  We’re pleased to partner with Island Earth Landscape and welcome the innovative technology,” said Ken Gallant, VAA Director, Operations and Safety. 

“While traditional crews are still needed for many of the services, robotic mowers will allow my crews to dedicate more time to providing value-added services to the airport and offers a new opportunity for staff to be Tech Handlers, said Deano Ross, Operational Manager, Island Earth Landscape.”

Some facts about Moe:

• Husqvarna 450X Robotic Mower
• Charging time:  60-minutes
• Dimensions:  72x56x31 cm and weighs 13.9kg
• Maximum incline:  45%
• Typical mow time on one charge is 290-minutes.
• Mean energy consumption at maximum use is 23kwh.
• Power consumption during cutting is 35W.

For more information about Victoria International Airport or its environmental initiatives, please visit www.victoriaairport.com

About Victoria International Airport

Victoria International Airport (Airport Code: YYJ) is the 10th busiest airport in Canada with over 1.93 million passengers per year.  Victoria is well served with more than 100 daily flights throughout North America.  YYJ was rated among one of the top ten most-loved airports in the world by CNN Travel and was twice named ‘Best Regional Airport in North America’ by Airports Council International.

Media Contact at ­Victoria Airport Authority

Ken Gallant
Director, Operations and Safety
T: (250) 953‐7542