ASL partners with Reliable Robotics to explore pilotless freighters

Aircraft operator ASL Aviation Holdings is exploring the possible use of autonomous freighter aircraft in partnership with Reliable Robotics.

The two companies will select a suitable aircraft for Reliable’s Remotely Operated Aircraft System with an initial focus on large twin-engine turboprop freighters.

ASL and Reliable will jointly assess the demand for remotely operated aircraft in Europe and in addition to remotely piloted air cargo services, the companies will evaluate aircraft suitable for remotely piloted humanitarian operations.

ASL Aviation Holdings director Hugh Flynn said: “This collaboration between ASL and Reliable is anchored on a common purpose to fully evaluate how remote and single pilot technologies can be developed and used to deliver safe, reliable and cost-effective cargo and passenger services.

“At ASL we are looking at how new technologies will change and improve aviation, and how we can be at the forefront of that change to offer enhanced services to our customers.”

Myles Goeller chief business officer of Reliable Robotics added: “ASL and Reliable see urgent market demand for automated systems that will enhance safety, increase utilisation of aircraft assets and support sustainability goals.

“ASL shares our commitment to investing in pioneering technology development to serve industry needs and improve how goods and people are transported.”

The partnership is not the first Reliable Robotics has formed with an airline in recent months.

In September, Reliable Robotics and Kenya-based airline Astral Aviation launched a new partnership they hope will increase the use of drones in sub-Saharan Africa.

The two companies said that through the partnership they will work together to develop operational, regulatory, and business plans to launch automated aircraft operations.

Reliable Robotics is working with the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to certify its automation system on the Cessna 208 Caravan, and to begin commercial cargo operations in the US.