Merlin’s modified Cessna Grand Caravan 208B takes flight over the Mojave Desert in California. [Courtesy: Merlin Labs]
Key Takeaways:
Merlin Labs has commenced certification-ready flight testing for its "Merlin Pilot" autonomous system, aiming to obtain a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) from the FAA for full takeoff-to-touchdown capabilities.
The Merlin Pilot system is designed to replicate human piloting skills, managing all flight phases and communicating directly with air traffic control via natural language processing, with an ultimate goal of enabling unpiloted flight in small aircraft.
The U.S. military is a key partner, actively testing and contracting Merlin Pilot for reduced-crew operations on various aircraft, including the C-130J and KC-135, complementing civil aviation certification efforts.
Self-flying aircraft may be closer to takeoff than you think.
On Thursday, Boston-based Merlin Labs announced it began what it claims is the first test campaign of a certification-ready, takeoff-to-touchdown autonomous flight system. The company’s Merlin Pilot is designed to one day allow small aircraft to fly with no humans on board.
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Jack is a staff writer covering advanced air mobility, including everything from drones to unmanned aircraft systems to space travel—and a whole lot more. He spent close to two years reporting on drone delivery for FreightWaves, covering the biggest news and developments in the space and connecting with industry executives and experts. Jack is also a basketball aficionado, a frequent traveler and a lover of all things logistics.
