5 Dec 2023

World-first trial of uncrewed aircraft a success

From Morning Report, 7:57 am on 5 December 2023

A world-first trial has just finished near Christchurch, in which an uncrewed aircraft has safely integrated into controlled airspace, flying among other piloted planes.

A series of test flights with the small craft was a step towards the ultimate goal of commercial autonomous flights.

Catherine MacGowan is the Asia Pacific director for Wisk, a California-based aerospace manufacturer which partnered with the New Zealand government and other aviation groups to carry out the trial.

MacGowan spoke to Corin Dann.