A Future with AI in Aviation: EASA’s Pioneering Role

Integration of Artificiell Intelligens (AI) and Maskininlärning (ML) in the aviation industry is a groundbreaking advancement that has gained significant momentum in recent years. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is taking the lead in facilitating this integration and ensuring the safety and reliability of AI applications in aviation.

In a recent release, ’Artificiell Intelligens Concept Paper Issue 02 – Riktlinjer för nivå 1 & 2 maskininlärningsapplikationer,’ EASA delves into the potential impact and scenarios that autonomous operations could introduce in the near future. A notable example highlighted in the report is a collaborative project between Boeing and EASA, focusing on an innovative auto-taxi system.

The auto-taxi system outlined in the report operates by receiving taxi clearance instructions from ground control through standard radio communication. It then devises a suitable ground taxiing route based on the clearance, executes the plan, and autonomously oversees the aircraft’s movement from one location to another at an airfield. To ensure obstacle detection, the system leverages a LIDAR system and has the option to enhance its capabilities by incorporating optical cameras for object classification and heightened awareness. Throughout the process, the flight crew maintains monitoring capabilities and retains the authority to override or disconnect the system as necessary.

While recognizing the promising future of autonomous operations, EASA is also aware of the distinct challenges they pose in ensuring operational safety. The Concept Paper emphasizes enhancing four key aviation pillars: safety, efficiency, sustainability, and passenger experience. To achieve this, EASA underscores the significance of learning assurance, AI explainability, and ethics-based assessment in the integration of ML into aviation.

Level 1 and Level 2 AI applications are pivotal aspects discussed in the Concept Paper. Level 1 AI applications are systems that boost human capabilities, whereas Level 2 AI applications involve human-AI teaming, where AI systems can autonomously make decisions under human supervision. EASA lays down comprehensive guidelines for the development and deployment of both levels, aiming to instill trust in AI applications while ensuring they complement human proficiency and enhance overall aviation safety and sustainability.

As an impartial and objective entity, EASA plays a crucial role in formulating rules, standards, and guidance to bolster confidence in safe air operations not only in Europe but on a global scale. The agency strives for a future where AI and ML are seamlessly integrated into aviation systems, fostering trust in these technologies and ensuring they harmonize with human expertise to elevate aviation safety and sustainability.

FAQ:

1. What is the purpose of EASA’s Concept Paper on Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning?
EASA’s Concept Paper aims to provide guidance and address the challenges and opportunities presented by the integration of AI and ML in the aviation industry. It focuses on enhancing safety, efficiency, sustainability, and the passenger experience while promoting responsible and ethical AI development.

2. How does the experimental auto-taxi system described in the report work?
The auto-taxi system is designed to receive taxi instructions from ground control, plan a ground taxiing route, and autonomously control the aircraft’s movement from one location to another at an airfield. It utilizes technology such as LIDAR and optional optical cameras for obstacle detection and object classification. The flight crew maintains monitoring capabilities and can override or disconnect the system if necessary.

3. What are Level 1 and Level 2 AI applications?
Level 1 AI applications refer to systems that enhance human capabilities, while Level 2 AI applications involve human-AI teaming, where AI systems can make autonomous decisions under human oversight. EASA provides comprehensive guidelines for the development and deployment of both levels.

4. How does EASA ensure the safety and integrity of AI applications in aviation?
EASA’s primary focus is on operational safety. The agency addresses learning assurance, AI explainability, and ethics-based assessment in its guidance. EASA also works closely with industry stakeholders to establish rules, standards, and certifications to ensure the safe integration of AI and ML technologies in aviation.

Källa:
– EASA (https://www.easa.europa.eu/)

The source of the article is from the blog elblog.pl

Privacy policy
Contact