&imwidth=800&imheight=600&format=webp&quality=medium "Can AI replace pilots? Experimental test sparks debate over future of pilots")
In yet another major step in the expansion of artificial intelligence into everyday industries, US-based startup Merlin Labs this week has shown that an AI-powered flight system is capable of handling several piloting tasks during an experimental aircraft test. The demonstration comes as the global aviation industry grapples with pilot shortages, rising pressure on air traffic systems and growing interest in AI-assisted air travel technologies. During the demonstration flight, test pilot Matt Diamond did not manually control the aircraft as the AI system executed commands such as changing course after verbal authorisation. The aircraft itself was officially marked “experimental.” However, Merlin executives acknowledged that completely pilotless passenger aircraft are not imminent. The company said the current focus is on building trust in AI systems by using them alongside human pilots rather than removing pilots altogether.
Inside Merlin Labs’ AI aviation technology
The Merlin Pilot system uses natural language processing to interpret air traffic control communications and automate piloting tasks. The test aimed to showcase how artificial intelligence could support pilots in future air travel operations and potentially pave the way for more autonomous aircraft systems.
Despite the advanced automation, Merlin Labs stressed that the technology is designed to assist human pilots rather than replace them entirely.
Also Read: ‘Future of work’: How OpenAI’s self-improving AI model is preparing to replace research jobs
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Trump administration backs AI modernisation
US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has supported the use of artificial intelligence tools as part of efforts to modernize America’s aging air traffic control infrastructure. Duffy emphasized that AI would not replace human air traffic controllers but could help reduce workload and improve efficiency within the system. Capt. Jason Ambrosi, president of the Air Line Pilots Association representing over 79,000 pilots in the US and Canada, said technological advancements may improve aviation safety but should never replace trained pilots in the cockpit. The pilots’ union maintained that the presence of two well-trained and well-rested pilots remains the most important safety feature on commercial flights.
