Otto the Autopilot this is not, but Aurora Flying Sciences’ Aircrew Labor In-cockpit Automation System (ALIAS) reached a significant milestone this week with the simulated landing of a Boeing 737-800NG. The latest accomplishment of this “robotic co-pilot” took place at the John A. Volpe National Transportation Systems Center in Massachusetts, as ALIAS proved it is capable of using the 737’s auto-landing system to land the aircraft safely, should the pilot become incapacitated.
Video: Aurora’s Robotic Co-pilot Successfully Lands a Simulated Boeing 737
Key Takeaways:
- Aurora Flying Sciences' ALIAS (Aircrew Labor In-cockpit Automation System), a robotic co-pilot, successfully simulated landing a Boeing 737-800NG, demonstrating its capability to use the auto-landing system if a pilot is incapacitated.
- Developed for DARPA, ALIAS is designed to act as a second pilot, aiming to reduce crew workload and operational costs while improving performance across diverse aircraft types.
- The technology is intended to "extend rather than replace human capabilities," allowing pilots to leverage their strengths for complex tasks while automation handles routine or emergency procedures.
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