AI Won’t Be Taking the Keys: Meet and Greet Parking Drivers Here to Stay
While artificial intelligence continues to reshape industries from finance to transport, one thing remains clear in the world of airport parking: the human element is irreplaceable. Meet and greet parking services, which offer a professional driver to collect and return a customer’s car at the airport, continue to thrive because of the one thing AI can’t replicate—genuine human interaction.
Although automated valet parking (AVP) systems are in trial at sites like Düsseldorf Airport and test facilities run by Bosch and Mercedes-Benz, these systems are highly controlled and far from mainstream. While they showcase how technology can enhance convenience, they fall short of replacing the nuance, reassurance, and service quality provided by a real person.
Sarah Anglim, Founder and Managing Director of I Love meet and greet, has seen the industry transform over more than four decades:
"Since I started in 1984, technology in cars has progressed hugely, and even car parks themselves have developed. But the core component of people being met by a professional driver and delivering a friendly service is still as valued today as it was over four decades ago."
At I Love meet and greet, innovation is embraced to support operations, not to replace the team. Drivers use handheld Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) to manage live booking information, vehicle tracking, and updates—all designed to make the customer experience seamless and efficient. But even with these tools, it’s the human driver that brings reassurance and trust to the service.
Anglim added:
"Our drivers use PDAs to streamline operations and stay updated, but AI won’t be replacing them anytime soon. It's their professionalism, reliability, and friendly nature that make the service truly personal—and that’s something no robot can deliver."
As the travel industry increasingly turns to automation, I Love meet and greet remains confident that the blend of smart tech and skilled, personable drivers is what continues to set them apart at the kerbside.