Advanced Air Mobility 2024

Automation taxonomy for aviation FIGURE 1 Manual Low automation Partial automation High automation Controls all functions Controls all functions Some functions can be automated (e.g. speed, altitude)Autonomy Automated system follows assigned flight plan with adjustments based on ATC or all hazards Pilot/supervisor can override decisionsIncreasing automation Illustrative examples**Types of automationHuman-in-the-loop Human-on-the-loop Human-over-the-loop Human operates aircraftHuman instructs aircraftHuman supervises aircraftHuman supervises aircraft or fleetHuman involvement One aircraft only One or a few aircraft Many aircraft Workload capacity Pilot/supervisor tasks and responsibilitiesMain functions are automated Human control can be assumed over most functionsAll functions are automated Functions can be instructed, if needed Controls flight plan Manages flight plan Gets support from automated navigation Automated system follows assigned flight plan with adjustments based on ATC or some hazards Pilot/supervisor can override decisionsAviate Navigate CommunicateSystem determines flight plan based on assigned mission with adaptation based on real-time information Pilot/supervisor can override decisions Clearances and requests from ATC are mainly automated Pilot/supervisor maintains verbal communicationCommunicates directly with ATC* and othersCommunicates directly with ATC and others Some functions are automated (e.g. situational updates)Some clearances and requests from ATC are automated Pilot/supervisor maintains verbal communicationSystem determines flight plan based on assigned mission with adaptation based on real-time information Pilot/supervisor can override decisions Remotely-supervised air taxis Remotely-supervised dronesBasic general aviation aircraft First generation commercial aircraftConsumer drones Commercial jetlinersModern commercial jetliners First generation eVTOLs*** BVLOS**** commercial dronesAutonomous air taxi fleets Autonomous delivery drone fleets Note: *ATC: Air traffic control; **These examples aim to simplify understanding by illustrating with familiar aircraft types. The type of automation will depend on the embedded systems; ***eVTOL: Electric vertical take-off and landing vehicle; ****BVLOS: Beyond visual line of sight Source: World Economic Forum Figure 1 can be used as a taxonomy to provide a widely accepted language on the roles and responsibilities of humans and aircraft. It is important to note that different research bodies from academia and industry are currently working on detailed taxonomies. The taxonomy above aims to be comprehensive for broader stakeholders. Converging on a joint understanding of autonomy will be a key cornerstone for international, unanimous regulation, and its execution across various jurisdictions. Advanced Air Mobility: Shaping the Future of Aviation 7