News / FedEx feeder operator trials Reliable autonomous freighter

Photo: Reliable Robotics

The air cargo industry took another step toward unmanned freighter operations last month when Reliable Robotics operated a Cessna Caravan from FedEx on a 12-minute flight at Hollister Municipal Airport in north California.

The aircraft was monitored by a pilot about 50 miles away in Reliable’s command centre, who also handled radio calls but did not actively control it. All processes, from taxiing and take-off to landing were automated and performed by Reliable’s systems.

The company ...