Rotorcraft
Leonardo Solo Makes First Unmanned Flight
The aircraft reached an altitude of 1,500 feet and a forward speed of 60 knots during the flight.
Look, Ma, no pilot! Leonardo Helicopters’ CEO said the success of its SW-4 Solo’s recent unmanned flight highlights his company’s leading role in developing remotely piloted aircraft systems.
Look, Ma, no pilot! Leonardo Helicopters’ CEO said the success of its SW-4 Solo’s recent unmanned flight highlights his company’s leading role in developing remotely piloted aircraft systems.

Leonardo Helicopters' (Booth C3225) optionally piloted SW-4 Solo recently completed its first flight without a safety pilot aboard, the company announced on Tuesday. The flight originated at the Taranto-Grottaglie airport in Southern Italy and lasted for 45 minutes, with all systems onboard reported as performing nominally.