Airbus Helicopters have successfully tested a new simplified human machine interface (HMI) along with advanced autonomous features through a project code-named Vertex.
Controlled by a tablet, the FlightLab helicopter flew fully automated from lift-off, taxi, takeoff, cruise, approach and then landing during a one hour test flight on a predefined route.
These technologies, developed by Airbus UpNext, aim to simplify mission preparation and management, reduce helicopter pilot workload, and further increase safety.
During this flight, the pilot monitored the system which is able to detect unforeseen obstacles and automatically recalculate a safe flight path. Whenever necessary, the pilot can easily override the controls through the tablet and resume the mission afterwards.
It's also a step towards a simplified HMI that the Airbus Urban Air Mobility team is working on for CityAirbus NextGen.
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