Hands-Free Hangars & Autoland Aircraft: Tech That's Transforming Aviation

S1 E15 Moviynt x Cirrus SafeReturn x STEM in Flight

Summary

This episode of The Future in Flight Podcast explores the cutting-edge technology transforming aviation today through three fascinating and educational segments. First, Philip Matkovsky, CEO of Moviynt (now part of Vuzix), reveals how augmented reality smart glasses and artificial intelligence are revolutionizing aerospace logistics at companies like Airbus Helicopters US, enabling workers to manage complex operations hands-free with voice commands and automatic scanning.

Next, we dive deep into the game-changing Cirrus SR22 G7 SafeReturn system with Ivy McIver from Cirrus Aircraft, exploring how this revolutionary technology allows passengers to land an aircraft with the push of a button when pilots become incapacitated—featuring AI that takes control of all aircraft systems, communicates with air traffic control, and executes safe landings automatically.

Finally, our STEM in Flight segment breaks down the fascinating science of how weather impacts aviation, from turbulence physics and air pressure changes to thunderstorm wind shear and the advanced forecasting technologies that keep flights safe.

As always, make sure to check out the latest edition of AviNation USA!

Special thank you to episode sponsor ASA–“providing trusted aviation products and supplies for more than eighty years.“

Key Takeaways

🥽 Augmented Reality Revolution with Moviynt/Vuzix:

Smart glasses technology eliminates traditional computer terminals and paperwork in aerospace warehouses and repair shops
Voice commands and automatic scanning using machine learning reduce training time from two days to one hour
Workers can operate completely hands-free, with software that learns job patterns and anticipates next steps
Creates new career paths in AI, AR, and machine learning beyond just coding—including process mapping and data science
Philip’s journey from political science to tech CEO shows multiple entry points into the industry
Applications extend beyond logistics to potential maintenance assistance and flight training
Resources for learning: Google ML Kit, TensorFlow, Microsoft tools, and KD Nuggets for AI/ML education

✈️ Cirrus SafeReturn: Revolutionary Safety Technology:

Activates via red button accessible to all cabin occupants or automatically when pilot becomes unresponsive
Takes control of all aircraft systems: throttle, mixture, flaps, fuel pump, navigation, ice protection, and communications
Complex 20-25 second algorithm evaluates weather, terrain, obstacles, fuel, and airport databases to find optimal landing site
Provides simplified passenger interface with clear communication about flight plan and upcoming maneuvers
Integrates with CAPS parachute system, creating “three legs of safety stool” (level button, SafeReturn, CAPS)
Lands at 95 knots with half flaps, uses radar altimeters, automatic braking, and provides evacuation instructions
Can be disconnected at any point, maintaining pilot authority while providing safety net
Represents fundamental shift in general aviation safety standards

🌦️ STEM in Flight: Weather Science:

Weather affects aviation through three major factors: visibility, turbulence, and air pressure changes
Visibility issues caused by light scattering through water droplets require instrument flight rules (IFR) and advanced navigation
Turbulence results from uneven air currents caused by weather systems, jet streams, and terrain features
Air pressure changes affect engine performance—less oxygen at altitude or low-pressure areas requires more engine work
Wind shear from thunderstorms creates sudden wind direction/speed changes, extremely dangerous during takeoff/landing
Doppler radar technology detects wind shear in real-time at airports
Artificial intelligence advancing weather prediction accuracy and speed for better flight planning
Career opportunities in aviation meteorology and weather-resistant aircraft engineering