The autonomous cobots have landed at the airport, proudly wearing brand-new name tags
Heathrow has revealed the official names of its fleet of autonomous cleaning robots (cobots) following a callout for ideas which drew thousands of submissions and a competitive final vote. From sci-fi parodies to pop culture puns, the winning names showcase the best of British humour.
The month-long competition was run in tribute to the dedicated service of Heathrow’s friendly fleet of cobots, which have become familiar friends to both passengers and airport colleagues. Passengers travelling this Easter weekend are encouraged to spot Heathrow’s handy helpers as they sweep through the terminals.
Among the winning names, thought up by fans of pop culture, aviation and ‘dad jokes’ from across the nation, include Boeing 7 Floor 7, Air Floorce One, R2-T2 and the ‘Boaty McBoatface’-inspired, Cleany McClean Face. Music and film references were particularly popular amongst voters, with Lightning McClean, Scrubrina Carpenter and RoboMop also making the final list.
The 24 newly named cobots have been reintroduced to passengers travelling through each of Heathrow’s terminals, sporting custom name tags. When preparing for take-off, holidaymakers can enjoy spotting Meryl Sweep, Obi-Wan Cleanobi, Moptimus Prime and Doctor Who-ver as they diligently go about their work.
Each autonomous robot can clean up to 4,800m² per day using advanced mapping technology and water‑recycling systems, operating for up to three hours before heading back to recharge.
Heathrow’s Director of Airport Journeys, Daniel Edwards, said “With the reveal of our cleaning robots’ new names, we are proud to see classic British humour shine through. We look forward to seeing the nation’s creativity bring smiles to passengers from all over the world, particularly as we approach the peak travel season.”
The cobots were introduced to Heathrow in partnership with facilities management company Mitie and represent the UK’s largest fleet of autonomous cleaning robots. Mitie has delivered cleaning services across Heathrow’s terminals since 2022, with 850 cleaning and hygiene specialists working across the airport, supported by Mitie’s innovative cleaning technology.