Pilot Is Optional For Certain Missions | Aviation International News

Pilot Is Optional For Certain Missions

Technology demonstrator is showing that flying a helicopter without a pilot could be feasible for some missions.

Automation advances in helicopters are being highlighted in the static display area, with an SD-150 Hero RUAS from Sistemi Dinamici S.p.A. in the foreground and a PZL-Swidnik SW-4 Solo behind it. A pilot is optional aboard the SW-4 while the SD-150, the product of a joint venture between IDS and AgustaWestland, can fly autonomous, preprogrammed missions.

By David Donald • Contributor - UK

November 9, 2015

AgustaWestland is showing off its RUAS (rotary-wing unmanned air system) technology demonstrator for the first time at Dubai. Based on the EASA-certified, single-engined PZL-Swidnik (AgustaWestland Poland) SW-4 Solo helicopter that entered service with the Polish armed forces in 2002, the RUAS is being used for a number of demonstrations and is configured for OPH (optionally piloted helicopter) operations. Although the SW-4 RUAS itself is capable of ISR and cargo transport missions, with or without a pilot, the technology could also be applied to other AgustaWestland types. Also on display is the smaller SD-150 HERO, which the company is marketing it as a lower-cost platform for similar missions.

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