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Will pilotless passenger planes ever replace crewed flight? © iStock

Will pilotless passenger planes ever replace crewed flight?

Current autopilot systems are capable of flying from takeoff to landing, but they're unlikely to be popular with passengers, especially in an emergency.

Asked by: Michael Turner, Pontefract

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Autopilots on modern airliners can fly the whole journey from takeoff to landing. The current problem is that computers are still not sophisticated enough to deal with any emergencies that could arise. Remotely piloted planes would be technically possible, though unlikely to be popular.

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