New aircraft tech could see co-pilots grounded

AIRCRAFT manufacturers are working on plans – part-funded by the European Commission – which could see commercial jet co-pilots out of a job. 

The project, backed by a consortium of companies including manufacturers Boeing and Airbus, is attempting to make flying safer by reducing the number of accidents. According to reports this could mean greater reliance on auto-pilot technology and less on flight deck crew.

Within the next six months, the Across Project (Advanced Cockpit for Reduction of Stress and Workload) is expected to develop new technology to fly aircraft remotely. This will be especially designed for flying in poor weather, in emergency situations, or in congested skies.

According to The Times, Across envisages the long-term the evolution of single pilot cockpits.

Balpa, the British pilots trade union, warned the move was a step towards fully automated aircraft which would be more vulnerable to hackers.

Go Holiday editor David Kernek comments: It comes as no surprise that the European Commission is helping to fund this crackpot project. What would surprise me very greatly is seeing the people who sign the cheques in Brussels boarding co-pilotless planes.

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