Airline group ASL Aviation Holdings is partnering with Reliable Robotics to explore prospects for introducing remotely-operated automated aircraft to its fleet. The companies aim to select twin-turboprop freighters that could be converted to use the technology that California-based Reliable Robotics intends to install in existing aircraft under an FAA supplemental type certificate (STC).
In a December 15 announcement, Reliable Robotics said it will work with ASL to gauge demand for remotely-operated aircraft in the European air freight sector and to potentially prepare the way to apply to EASA for the required STC. “Airlines are best positioned to understand air cargo demand, so we intend to leverage ASL’s deep understanding of the European and other international cargo markets to maximize the safety and economic benefits of automation,” said Myles Goeller, Reliable Robotics’ chief business officer.
