Toward single pilot operations: A conceptual framework to manage in-flight incapacitation

A major challenge for the implementation of Single Pilot Operations (SPO) in commercial aviation is how to deal with the potential risk of in-flight pilot incapacitation. In this paper, a conceptual framework is presented aiming at supporting flight and landing of a single-piloted aircraft in case the single pilot on board becomes incapacitated during the flight, specifically focusing on the ground side of the Air Traffic Management (ATM) framework. This concept considers the interaction of a ground-based pilot operating through a remote cockpit position with onboard automation and air traffic controllers. A description of the foreseen operational processes and procedures allowing the transition from single-piloted aircraft to Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) is provided, together with an analysis of their technical, legal, and regulatory implications.