Avionics
Merlin and Quikjet Team on Pilot Fatigue Study
Results could inform development of Merlin's autonomous flight control system
A Quikjet pilot wears a Whoop wearable fitness tracker
Quikjet's commercial cargo pilots will wear Whoop wristband trackers during the study. © Merlin

Autonomous flight pioneer Merlin is teaming with cargo airline Quikjet to assess how pilot fatigue and wellness can affect their performance on the job. The results of the study could help shape future industry standards for safety while also informing the design of the Merlin Pilot autonomous flight control system, according to Merlin. 

During the study, Merlin will collect biometric data from Quikjet’s commercial pilots using a wearable fitness tracking device—specifically, a wristband manufactured by a company called Whoop. Those wearable devices measure heart rate, physical activity, sleep quality, and stress levels.

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