Robotic plane are to be examined in UK airspace to assist refine methods that management autonomous planes. According to BAE, to help refine systems that control autonomous planes, they would be carrying 17 flights, using "Jetstream 31" - an aircraft converted to Robot and capable of flying itself. The craft will be autonomous as it navigates 300 miles (482 km) from Lancashire to Inverness. Further with that, the human pilots will handle takeoff and landing.
On its autonomous flight, the Jetstream 31 aircraft will proceed from non-congested airspace at an altitude of about 15,000 ft (4.6km). It is expected to take about 90 minutes travel time.
The trial will valuate piloting software and sensor systems that monitor clouds as well as other airplane. The robotic aircraft will use various data from satellites to pilot itself. It also identify systems that log radio indicators broadcast by transponders on other planes.
The Jetstream aircraft is fitted with a monitoring cameras that can view other air users even if they are not emitting warning signals, in inclusion. This camera also would review the skies around the craft to analyze and spot bad weather or heavy cloud, helps to allow the aircraft to accommodate its route to avoid turbulence as well as to other different "challenging conditions"
Head of BAE research and technology expertise, Maureen McCue said that the trials were "exciting" and it was working with the UK's National Air Traffic Services to find out how well the autonomous air craft directed allocation of the skies with human piloted aircraft. McCue stated, "We are working towards the possibility of flying our own unmanned systems in a highly controlled environment in the UK."
