After operating in stealth mode for the last four years, San Francisco-based Xwing said in a news release last week it has carried out a number of passenger-carrying flights from takeoff to landing using a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan. Xwing’s Autoflight System retrofits existing aircraft into optionally piloted vehicles, “by integrating with onboard flight control systems that allow the aircraft to navigate, take off and land autonomously, ensuring more cost-effective operations for logistic companies.” The system is designed to be supervised by remote operators who work with air traffic controllers to ensure safety throughout the flight.
Xwing Flies Cessna Caravan Autonomously
Key Takeaways:
- Xwing has developed an "Autoflight System" that retrofits existing aircraft, like the Cessna 208B Grand Caravan, enabling autonomous takeoffs, navigation, and landings under remote supervision.
- After four years in stealth, Xwing successfully demonstrated its technology with passenger-carrying autonomous flights and extensive testing, accumulating over 40 hours of automated flight time.
- The company has secured a Part 135 Air Carrier certificate and plans to commence commercial autonomous cargo operations soon, aiming to triple aircraft utilization and achieve 20-30% cost savings in the air cargo market.
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