Last September, Merlin began a test campaign using a Cessna Caravan. [Courtesy: Merlin Labs]
Key Takeaways:
The aviation industry is divided over the future of flight crew operations, with the FAA maintaining a two-pilot standard while companies develop technology for reduced, single-pilot, or autonomous flights.
Companies like Merlin Labs and Reliable Robotics are actively developing and pursuing FAA certification for advanced automation systems, initially targeting cargo and smaller aircraft with potential for broader adoption.
Pilot unions, notably ALPA, vehemently oppose reduced-crew operations, citing critical safety concerns such as increased pilot workload in emergencies, potential for complacency, and overwhelming public discomfort with fewer than two pilots on the flight deck.
Former FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker in September reiterated a long-standing agency commitment: Two pilots must always be on the flight deck during routine commercial flight operations.
But that hasn’t stopped companies from developing technology designed to reduce or even eliminate crews—and airlines and pilots are divided on whether that will compromise safety.
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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.
