Reliable Robotics achieves major FAA milestone

Reliable Robotics aircraft
Reliable Robotics autonomous Cessna 208 Caravan. | Credit: Reliable Robotics

Reliable Robotics, said today that the FAA has accepted the certification basis for its advanced navigation and autoflight system (FAA). 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 make the plane safer by letting the autopilot remain on during taxiing, takeoff, cruise, landing, stopping and rolling out, even if there is only one pilot on board for unexpected procedures.

“We are very appreciative of the FAA’s noteworthy attention to detail and ongoing support,” said Mark Mondt, Director of Certification at Reliable Robotics. “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.”

During a certification project, the FAA uses issue papers as a structured method for describing and recording the resolution of important technical and regulatory issues. The signed G-1 issue study states that Reliable Robotics and the FAA have reached a formal agreement about the airworthiness and environmental requirements that apply to the company’s advanced automation system.

Controlled Flight Into Terrain, and Loss of Control are the top two reasons why small planes crash and kill people today. Advanced automation systems will make it less likely for these accidents to happen and bring a level of safety to commercial aviation that has never been seen before. This will be done through precise navigation, advanced flight planning and strong flight controls.

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Written by

Mike Oitzman

Mike Oitzman is Senior Editor of WTWH's Robotics Group, cohost of The Robot Report Podcast, and founder of the Mobile Robot Guide. Oitzman is a robotics industry veteran with 25-plus years of experience at various high-tech companies in the roles of marketing, sales and product management. He can be reached at moitzman@wtwhmedia.com.