Overview
- In a recent experimental flight, Merlin’s Merlin Pilot system controlled a Cessna Caravan while the test pilot did not manually fly the airplane, responding to ATC-style commands over the radio.
- The system uses natural language processing to interpret spoken instructions, answer on the radio with a synthesized voice, and automate navigation, course changes and approach and landing tasks.
- Merlin says it has completed hundreds of test flights and has won a U.S. Air Force contract worth more than $100 million to adapt the technology for cargo planes, while it pursues Federal Aviation Administration certification.
- Aviation officials and industry leaders say AI tools could reduce pilot and controller workload as airlines face long-term pilot shortages, but safety researchers and the pilots’ union warn the system must be hardened and trusted before passenger use.
- Widespread passenger service remains years away because FAA approval, extensive testing and crew‑trust-building are required, and the military pathway is likely to serve as the first operational proving ground.