Airbus Achieves Milestone in Autonomous Flight with Tablet-Controlled Helicopter

Airbus Achieves Milestone in Autonomous Flight with Tablet-Controlled Helicopter

Madrid, November 2023 – Airbus has marked a significant breakthrough in aviation technology by successfully testing a fully automated helicopter controlled via a touchscreen tablet. This innovative development, part of a project named Vertex, was conducted by Airbus UpNext, a subsidiary focused on future aviation technologies.

Simplifying Helicopter Operations with Advanced Technology

The Vertex project introduces a new, simplified human-machine interface (HMI) that integrates advanced autonomous features. This technology is designed to streamline mission preparation and management, significantly reduce pilot workload, and enhance overall flight safety.

Demonstrating Full Automation in Flight

During a one-hour test flight, the Airbus Helicopters’ FlightLab demonstrated complete automation capabilities, including automated lift-off, taxi, takeoff, cruise, approach, and landing. The test, which followed a predefined route, was conducted at the Airbus Helicopters’ facility in Marignane, France, from October 27 to November 22, 2023.

The pilot's role during this flight was to monitor the system, which is equipped to detect unforeseen obstacles and autonomously recalculate a safe flight path. The system allows for easy pilot override through the tablet interface, enabling a seamless transition back to the mission after any manual intervention.

A Step Towards Urban Air Mobility

Michael Augello, CEO of Airbus UpNext, highlighted the significance of this demonstration for future aviation advancements. He noted that the successful autonomous flight from takeoff to landing aligns with the goals of the Airbus Urban Air Mobility team, particularly for the upcoming CityAirbus NextGen. The technology also promises immediate benefits for helicopters operating in low-level flights near obstacles, thanks to onboard lidar (light detection and ranging) systems.

Ongoing Development and Future Applications

Airbus Helicopters is committed to further developing the technologies integral to Vertex. These include vision-based sensors and algorithms for enhanced situational awareness and obstacle detection, fly-by-wire systems for improved autopilot functionality, and advanced human-machine interfaces comprising touchscreen and head-worn displays for in-flight monitoring and control.

This milestone in autonomous aviation technology by Airbus represents a significant leap forward in the industry, paving the way for more efficient, safe, and advanced helicopter operations. Follow the latest developments in this field with @AirbusHeli, #FlightLab, @AirbusUpNext, #Vertex, and #AAM on social media platforms.