Airbus achieves milestone with Tablet-Controlled Autonomous Helicopter Flight
by Hugo Ritmico
Madrid, Spain (SPX) Nov 28, 2023

Airbus has recently marked a significant advancement in aviation technology with the successful testing of a new, simplified human-machine interface (HMI), a part of its ambitious project code-named Vertex. Developed by Airbus UpNext, a subsidiary dedicated to pioneering future aerospace technologies, these novel features are controlled through a touchscreen tablet, significantly simplifying mission preparation and management. This development not only aims to reduce the workload of helicopter pilots but also to enhance overall flight safety.

The groundbreaking test was conducted using the Airbus Helicopters' FlightLab, which executed a fully automated flight, encompassing all phases from lift-off to landing. This included taxi, takeoff, cruise, approach, and final landing, all achieved over the span of a one-hour test flight along a predefined route. The pilot's role during this flight was primarily to monitor the system, which is adept at detecting unforeseen obstacles and recalculating safe flight paths autonomously. The pilot maintained the ability to override the controls via the tablet and resume the mission as needed.

This flight test, conducted at the Airbus Helicopters' facility in Marignane, France, ran from October 27th to November 22nd and represented a significant leap in autonomous aviation technology. According to Michael Augello, CEO of Airbus UpNext, "This successful demonstration of a fully autonomous flight from takeoff to landing is a great step towards the reduced pilot workload and simplified HMI that the Airbus Urban Air Mobility team intends to implement on CityAirbus NextGen. It could also have immediate applications for helicopters in low-level flights close to obstacles thanks to the information provided by the lidars on board."

The Vertex project involves integrating various cutting-edge technologies, including vision-based sensors for enhanced situational awareness and obstacle detection, advanced fly-by-wire systems for improved auto-pilot, and an innovative human-machine-interface consisting of a touchscreen and head-worn display for in-flight monitoring and control. These technologies represent Airbus' commitment to advancing the safety and efficiency of helicopter operations.

The concept of autonomous helicopters and advanced HMIs in aviation is not entirely new. However, the integration of touchscreen controls and sophisticated sensor systems for obstacle detection, as demonstrated by Airbus, shows significant progress in this domain. The FlightLab platform has been pivotal in testing and validating these new technologies, which could soon be implemented in future helicopter models.

Urban Air Mobility (UAM) is an emerging sector in aerospace, focusing on developing air vehicles for urban environments. The mention of CityAirbus NextGen in relation to this test signifies Airbus' ongoing efforts in this area. The application of these advanced technologies in urban air transportation solutions could revolutionize how we approach short-distance urban travel.

The utilization of lidar technology, which measures distances by illuminating targets with laser light and measuring reflections, is key to the enhanced obstacle detection capabilities of this system. This technology, commonly used in various applications, including autonomous vehicles, plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and navigability of autonomous air vehicles.

Airbus Helicopters plans to continue refining the technologies encompassed in the Vertex project, further enhancing the capabilities of their helicopters. This recent demonstration is not only a testament to Airbus' innovative spirit but also a glimpse into the future of aviation, where enhanced safety, efficiency, and simplified operation are at the forefront.

Related Links
Airbus
UAV News - Suppliers and Technology