//snip//
The FEDEX CEO has already made the statement expressing interest in developing a automated cargo aircraft for his fleet.
Given the current autopilots, GPS advances and FMC's it is not too distant of a goal IMO.
Course I am sure the unions are having a thing or two to say about it. The Airline pilots association is probably giving birth to furry animals over that idea.
That should make an interesting future for some young entrepreneurs in the scrap metals recovery area. It will be well scattered around.
At least the Air Traffic Controllers will be smiling.
At long last they will be able to command the airplane rather than have to abide by the Captain's decisions.
First Fly-By-wire, already converting form to scrap, and now automation. Oh well, "Do not worry, nothing can go wrong, go wrong, go wrong, go wrong........"
BTW those that credit the current AMA EVP with the ultimate selection of Mr. Koranda for AMA ED should be good prospects to buy a ticket on the first automated airliner, even if it be a freighter. [>:]
Retired Airline Captain, UAL
Century Club ALPA
National Aviation & Space Exploration Wall of Honor, Stephen F. Udvar-Hazy Center