1 April 2024
The AA has today [1 April] launched ‘bAAgsy’, a drone service that can find and reserve a parking space in busy car parks.
Initially being rolled out to members, drivers who have downloaded The AA App, will be able to hail one of the fleet of AA drones to spot a vacant space in the car park they are searching in. Once a spot has been found it will reserve it for them by hovering over the bay.
Once the driver parks, the drone will return to base, ready to fly again.
“Our new ‘bAAgsy’ tool will give confidence to drivers now and into the future”
Previously, two fifths (37%**) of drivers told the UK’s largest breakdown organisation that they find being unable to find a parking space a stressful scenario.
This is not the first time The AA has taken to the skies to help its millions of members. In 1929, an Aviation Section was launched to survey landing grounds and plot obstructions to private flyers, and even repatriated sick and injured members travelling abroad through a partnership with the St John’s Ambulance Aeromedical Service up to 1994***.
Once the system is established, it is hoped that manufacturers could install a ‘bAAgsy’ button on the dashboard on their up and coming models.
Dr Raif Lopol, head of future technology strategy at The AA, said; “Trying to find a space in a busy car park can be stressful, especially when passengers are getting annoyed.
“Drone technology is reaching new heights, and utilising them in a way that helps our members is hugely beneficial.
“We are always ahead and constantly look for the best ways to help our members. Our new ‘bAAgsy’ tool will give confidence to drivers now and into the future.”
* Demonstration video can be watched here; Introducing Baagsy on Vimeo
** Yonder received 13,935 responses from AA members to its online poll between the 11th to the 19th April 2022. Yonder is a member of the British Polling Council and abides by its rules.