In a groundbreaking development, Reliable Robotics has secured Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval for its revolutionary autonomous flight system certification plan. With this major milestone, the company is now poised to conduct extensive testing of its fully automated aircraft systems.
The autonomous flight system is designed to keep the aircraft in autopilot mode throughout all phases of operation, spanning from taxiing to takeoff and landing. In response to the achievement, the company expressed its enthusiasm, stating, “This landmark achievement marks unrivaled progress towards the certification of fully automated aircraft.”
See also: Alef Aeronautics Receives FAA Approval for Electric Flying Car
Renowned aerospace expert, Eric Schulz, former executive at Rolls-Royce and Airbus, commended Reliable Robotics, stating, “Reliable is the only company that has reached this critical point, positioning them as the clear front-runner in the FAA certification process for autonomous aircraft.” He further emphasized the potential benefits of Reliable’s automation system, foreseeing increased safety and more cost-effective air transportation options for cargo and passengers, regardless of location.
Notably, Reliable Robotics had previously collaborated with the U.S. Air Force in February to undertake research into automating large, multi-engine jets through its autonomous aircraft system. The promising outcomes attracted the attention of NASA, who sent researchers to Reliable Robotics’ headquarters in Mountain View, California, in the same month. During their visit, they actively participated in flight testing and gathered invaluable data for further analysis.
Continuing the streak of successful demonstrations, in May, Reliable Robotics showcased the capability of its autonomous system by conducting a flawless takeoff, flight, and landing of its Cessna Caravan 208 aircraft during Air Force testing at Travis Air Force Base in California.
See also: Joby Aviation Completes First eVTOL Aircraft as FAA Certifies Test Flights
Reflecting on the achievement, Juerg Frefel, co-founder, and chief technology officer of Reliable Robotics, expressed satisfaction at the approval of the certification plan, as it signifies the culmination of years of meticulous collaboration with the FAA. He highlighted the dedication to ensuring seamless integration of autonomous systems into aircraft and underlined the significance of adhering to current rules to expedite progress while maintaining aviation’s high safety standards.
