A video circulating on TikTok appears to show a grandmother experiencing some difficulty while operating one of O’Hare International Airport’s new AI-controlled electric wheelchairs, leading to a close call with another traveler. The footage, posted by user @grace_mh525, captures a moment of unexpected movement that some viewers have found humorous, while others have expressed concern.
The video begins with the grandmother seated in what appears to be a futuristic wheelchair at an airport terminal. On-screen text accompanying the video states, “everyone please watch this video of my grandma at ohare airport in their new AI controlled wheelchairs as she almost runs someone over.” The grandmother is seen smiling and looking towards the camera. She is wearing a light green vest over a patterned shirt and has a dark bag on her lap.
As the grandmother begins to maneuver the wheelchair, she is heard saying, “Okay, okay. Thank you, have a good one. Thank you.” She then turns the wheelchair, seemingly to better face the camera, and comments, “Here, maybe I should stand here so I can do the sensors.” She laughs and adds, “I feel like a nut. No, it’s better off.” The wheelchair’s responsiveness is evident as she navigates, and the on-screen text suggests it may possess autonomous capabilities.
O’Hare Airport’s advanced mobility options
O’Hare International Airport has been seen to be implementing new technology aimed at assisting travelers, including advanced electric wheelchairs that appear to incorporate AI-driven features. These chairs are designed to offer enhanced mobility and potentially greater independence for passengers navigating the large airport. The video highlights an instance where such technology is in use, with the on-screen text suggesting the wheelchair is “AI controlled.”
The footage shows the grandmother continuing to move through the airport concourse. She turns her head and smiles, appearing to take in her surroundings. The wheelchair is equipped with a blue suitcase attached to its rear. Her demeanor in the video is lively and appears amused as she engages with the camera. The background of the video displays typical airport scenes, featuring shops and other travelers. Signs for “SPA” and “INMOTION ENTERTAINMENT” are visible in the concourse.
The video’s public caption expresses amusement, stating, “this might be the funniest thing I’ve ever seen 😭 #ohareairport #grandma #viral #fyp #fypシ”. This sentiment is echoed by some viewers in the comment section, who find the situation humorous. Airport terminals remain a favorite stage for viral TikTok moments, such as when a traveler filmed a TSA agent reading his notebook during a bag inspection at Dulles.
However, the incident has also sparked discussion among viewers regarding safety and potential risks associated with the technology. One commenter pointed out, “That could cause some serious spinal issues in elders from short stopping like that,” suggesting a concern for the well-being of elderly users.
Other viewers focused on the actions of individuals within the video. One comment questioned the movement of another person in the airport: “Why did he literally jump out in front of the chair? No spatial awareness…” Another commenter humorously observed, “Uncs first day at the airport, my god.” The grandmother’s vocalizations also drew attention, with one comment noting, “Her little ‘ahHhH’ 😅”. Airport security screenings have produced their own share of viral clips, like a Texas man who tried to smuggle a 12-pack of Spotted Cow beer through security.
Another viewer highlighted a background element: “Guys no one has mentioned the lady in the back that points and laughs at her and I feel like that adds to how funny this whole thing is HAHAHAHA.” The grandmother’s own reactions to the wheelchair’s movement were also noted, with one comment sharing, “PUHH LEASEEEE why did he turn back like that😭😭”.
The video appears to capture a moment where the grandmother’s operation of the advanced wheelchair leads to an unexpected maneuver, causing a near-miss with another individual. The grandmother’s own commentary, such as “I feel like a nut,” suggests a degree of surprise or amusement at her own experience with the technology. The on-screen text explicitly states that the grandmother “almost runs someone over,” indicating a perceived hazard in the situation. The presence of airport staff in the background, along with other travelers and luggage, underscores the public setting of the incident. The details within the video, including the on-screen text and the grandmother’s spoken words, contribute to the narrative of her navigating the airport in the new AI-controlled wheelchair.
