Automated Flight Systems Aim to Improve Aviation Safety and Connect Rural Communities
Advancements in automated flight technology are being developed to address two critical challenges in aviation: safety and accessibility. Companies like Reliable Robotics are creating systems designed to prevent the majority of fatal general aviation accidents by enabling continuous autopilot engagement from gate to gate, including auto-taxi, takeoff, and landing.
These technologies aim to reduce common accidents significantly caused by controlled flight into terrain and loss of control in flight. Beyond safety, this automation could fundamentally transform access to air service. Since 2019, over 300 rural communities have lost or had air service reduced or eliminated. Automated systems could enable more reliable service to thousands of underutilized general aviation airports across the United States.
While initial applications focus on cargo and military flights, the technology represents a significant step toward a future with more automated, accessible, and safer air travel.
Focus on Military Adoption and Certification
U.S. Air Force Invests in Certifiable Autonomous Cargo Plane
The U.S. Air Force is taking a significant step toward integrating automated aircraft into its fleet with a $17.4 million contract with Reliable Robotics. The agreement involves purchasing and testing the company’s “Reliable Autonomy System” on a Cessna 208B Caravan cargo plane.
A key differentiator of this technology is its pursuit of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification, which would allow it to operate seamlessly in civilian airspace. This contrasts with current military drones, which require intensive, case-by-case coordination with the FAA.
The system enables a remote pilot on the ground to manage the aircraft through all phases of flight without being onboard. The Cessna 208B, known for its reliability, can carry a 1,000-pound payload over 1,000 nautical miles. This contract signals the military’s commitment to acquiring and operating certifiable autonomous technology for future logistics and potential troop movements.
