Merlin’s modified Cessna Grand Caravan 208B takes flight over the Mojave Desert in California. [Courtesy: Merlin Labs]
Key Takeaways:
Merlin Labs has initiated a certification-ready test campaign for its "Merlin Pilot" autonomous flight system, aiming for FAA approval to enable takeoff-to-touchdown self-flying capabilities on small aircraft, starting with a Cessna Grand Caravan.
The Merlin Pilot system mimics human pilot decisions, uses an array of sensors, and uniquely communicates directly with Air Traffic Control via natural language processing, differentiating it from competitors.
The technology is being developed for both civil and military applications, with significant contracts for U.S. military aircraft like the C-130J and KC-135, and FAA validation anticipated by Q3.
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.
CREATE A FREE ACCOUNT
Sign up to keep reading
Create a free account to continue. Already a member? Sign in below.
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.
