Merlin Labs, a Rhode Island startup, is testing AI systems that can fly aircraft with minimal human input, including the ability to listen to and respond to air traffic control instructions over the radio; this technology could help address the projected pilot shortage of over 600,000 new pilots needed in the next 20 years, though concerns about safety, reliability, and passenger trust remain.
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AI is already flying test aircraft π³βοΈπ€ A startup called Merlin Labs is testing artificial intelliAdded:
Would you [music] trust artificial intelligence to fly your airplane?
Because it's already happening.
>> [music] >> In Rhode Island, a startup called Merlin Labs is testing AI systems that can fly aircraft with very little human input.
During a recent demonstration [music] flight, a test pilot reportedly kept his hands off the controls while the aircraft handled many normal flying tasks [music] on its own. But this isn't just regular autopilot. The AI can reportedly listen to air traffic control instructions, understand them, and even respond over the radio. Supporters say technology like this could help [music] solve a growing pilot shortage. Boeing estimates airlines will need over 600,000 new pilots [music] in the next 20 years. Others believe AI could also reduce human error and help modernize aviation. [music] But critics still raise concerns about safety, reliability, and one big question, would passengers actually trust a computer to fly them? So be honest, >> [music] >> would you board an AI-flown plane?
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