Aviation startup Merlin Labs showcased its AI-powered flight system on a Cessna Caravan aircraft. The technology managed navigation, radio communication, and landing assistance.
The Merlin Pilot system uses artificial intelligence and natural language processing to interact with air traffic control instructions and manage the aircraft during flight. Test pilot Matt Diamond stated that the technology is designed to support pilots rather than replace them.
Stanford University researcher Mykel Kochenderfer told CNN that the technology shows promise for enhancing safety, but more hardening of the technology and building trust are needed for acceptance in the industry.
The aviation industry faces increasing pressure due to worldwide struggles with pilot shortages. Boeing estimates over 600,000 new pilots will be required over the next 20 years.
US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said AI tools could help modernize aviation systems while keeping humans in control. Controllers would still manage airspace, but AI tools could make their jobs easier.
Merlin Labs has completed hundreds of test flights and recently secured a US Air Force contract worth more than $100 million.