This cargo plane completed a pilotless flight in November, covering a standard 50-mile (80-kilometer) route without any humans on board. Be sure to watch this video until the end to grasp the mechanism and technology behind it. This achievement, announced by Reliable Robotics, a California-based automation systems company, marked a significant milestone in the advancement of automated aviation. The Cessna 208B Caravan took off, flew for 12 minutes, and landed safely under remote control from the ground, as outlined in a press release by Reliable Robotics.

Addressing the question of how pilotless flight is possible, the flight system enables a ground-based pilot to control the aircraft remotely, enhancing safety during takeoff, landing, and throughout the flight. The pilot communicates with the aircraft through encrypted satellite signals, using an interface similar to that employed by air traffic controllers.

Robert Rose, the CEO of Reliable Robotics, explained to CNN that the control mechanism involves a set of parameters, akin to a 'choose your own adventure' scenario based on the aircraft's location. In the event of communication failure, each message sent during the flight contains landing instructions, emphasizing the autonomous nature of the system with no direct human control.

This autonomous system, under development since 2019, addresses the issue of pilot shortages. While a certified pilot is still required to operate the aircraft from the cockpit, the automated flight model eliminates the need for layovers and waiting for the next flight, potentially alleviating the current pilot shortage, according to aviation expert David Soucy.

Regarding safety, Rose highlighted that the Reliable Robotics system is designed to prevent common accidents associated with human error, such as unintentional collisions with terrain and loss of control in flight, which are major contributors to fatal crashes. The system cross-checks with a terrain and obstacle database to prevent erroneous programming that could lead to collisions.

Currently seeking certification for the Caravan, Reliable Robotics is also testing the system on larger aircraft, including the KC-135 Stratotanker with the US Air Force, a military refueling plane based on the Boeing 707. The company aims to initiate testing on jet cargo aircraft within the next five to 10 years, marking a potential revolution and milestone in aviation history.



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BELwEPdXvM0

Somebody should give OlaOfLagos this plane to market....



"Okpor.... It's plenty..... I will never be poor" 🫣

[quote author=JASONjnr post=127701804]Somebody should give OlaOfLagos this plane to market....



"Okpor.... It's plenty..... I will never be poor"