ASOG 2019 Focus Areas: Trending Technology
If you’ve been tracking aviation news this month (see links below), the USAF conducted its first test of a Robot Pilot (ROBOPilot). From a manned aircraft Airborne Sensor Operator (ASO) perspective (the operator in the back of the aircraft), WHAT IF your fellow crewmember the pilot was a ROBOPilot:
• Would you fly in this configuration?
• What would be different, i.e., what would be different regarding responsibilities, CRM, managing dynamic re-taskings, emergencies etc.?
ASOG Desk Editor
Image Source: AFRL
Comments
Hi Darryl, it’s great to see you on the net! I agree with your points. The reason I posted this piece (just my forward-thinking-thoughts) is that somehow/someway, someone (decision maker) is going to get the idea of just putting a ROBO at the controls of their already paid for fully equipped multi-mission aircraft to maximize efficiency. So, if that happens, how do we as a profession participate in this next tech evolution wave regarding safety, efficiency and effectiveness. Again, that was my thoughts for posting. Fire away with your comments!
I don't think that I could do it. That would be an awful lot of skin in the game. Part of having a pilot on board is to handle emergencies, and there are an entirely different set issues that can result on a remotely piloted aircraft.