The FAA has accepted the certification basis of US-based autonomous aircraft systems developer Reliable Robotics' advanced navigation and autoflight system. The final G-1 issue paper defines the certification basis for the company's supplemental type certification (STC) on the Cessna 208 Caravan, a popular cargo aircraft. This STC will enhance safety by enabling continuous autopilot engagement through all phases of aircraft operation, including taxi, take off, cruise, landing, braking and rollout, with a single pilot on board for abnormal procedures.

“We are very appreciative of the FAA's noteworthy attention to detail and ongoing support,” says director of certification Mark Mondt. “This certification basis is the culmination of years of work with the FAA and represents a key step towards bringing advanced navigation and autoflight systems to normal category aircraft. We look forward to continuing our work together as we move into the next phase of the certification process.”

The FAA uses issue papers to provide a structured means of describing and tracking the resolution of significant technical and regulatory issues that occur during a certification project. The signed G-1 issue paper represents a formal agreement between Reliable Robotics and the FAA on the applicable airworthiness and environmental requirements for the company's advanced automation system.

Today, controlled flight into terrain and loss of control are the main two causes of fatal accidents in small aircraft. Advanced automation systems will reduce the occurrence of these accidents and bring an unprecedented level of safety to commercial aviation through precision navigation, sophisticated flight planning and robust flight controls.