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With a significant stride towards enhancing aviation safety, we are excited to share that we are partnering with MIT Lincoln Laboratory (LL) to integrate the Airborne Collision Avoidance System Xu (ACAS Xu) with the Merlin Pilot. This collaboration marks a crucial milestone in operationalizing next-generation safety-critical technology, aiming to revolutionize automated flight and ensure safer skies for all.
The partnership between Merlin and MIT LL centers on exploring the commercial adoption of ACAS Xu on unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), with a focus on integrating the ACAS Xu software standard (RTCA DO-386) into the Merlin Pilot. This integration will empower Merlin to deliver advanced automated collision avoidance measures that surpass the standards of the National Airspace System, setting new benchmarks for aviation safety.
Funded by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), MIT LL’s ACAS X is an onboard next-generation airborne collision avoidance system that will one day replace the current Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System II (TCAS). Designed specifically for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), the ACAS Xu version of the system is fully compatible with the new airspace procedures and technologies, aligning seamlessly with the FAA’s next-generation air transportation system.
The collaboration between Merlin and MIT LL holds immense promise in integrating unmanned aircraft systems into the national airspace system safely and efficiently. By leveraging MIT LL’s expertise in developing advanced technologies and Merlin’s innovative approach to aviation automation, this partnership will redefine the future of automated flight operations.
“Integrating the next-generation ACAS Xu system with the Merlin Pilot is a pivotal step towards enhancing aviation safety and advancing automation capabilities,” stated Alex Naiman, CTO, Merlin. “Our commitment to delivering cutting-edge technology aligns with our vision of a safer and more efficient aviation ecosystem.”
MIT LL echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the critical role of advanced collision avoidance systems in bolstering aviation safety. “Our collaboration with Merlin underscores our shared dedication to improving aviation safety and exploring the commercial viability of next-generation technologies,” said Wesley Olson, Leader, Surveillance Systems Group, MIT Lincoln Laboratory. “Together, we are paving the way for safer skies and a more interconnected airspace system.”
The integration of ACAS Xu with the Merlin Pilot represents a significant advancement in collision avoidance technology, with far-reaching implications for the future of unmanned aircraft systems and automated flight operations. As Merlin and MIT LL continue their collaborative efforts, the aviation industry can look forward to a safer and more technologically advanced airspace environment.
As we pioneer efforts to create safer skies, developing the world’s most capable pilot, we take pride in not only working with other highly respected and innovative companies, but original solutions like our Certification System Bench, that will get us there safely. To stay up to date on Merlin’s latest developments follow us on LinkedIn and X.