Key technologies and deployment routes for advancing autonomous operations in civil aviation

Autonomous operation of civil aviation is a new mode of future Air Traffic Management (ATM), where the onboard pilot is the central decision-maker supported by precise situation awareness, reliable decision-making support, and an advanced ATM system. The promotion of autonomous operations in civil aviation aims to overcome the limitations of airspace capacity and efficiency, reduce the workload of air traffic controllers, and enhance the merit of the flight. This paper systematically defines the concept and characteristics of the autonomous operation mode. Based on the current development of China's civil aviation industry and global trends in ATM reforms, it outlines the key technologies needed to implement autonomous operations, such as situational awareness, decision-making support, and safety interval maintenance. Furthermore, we propose the necessary infrastructure for both onboard and ground-based systems, and a development plan for promoting autonomous operation, considering the existing ATM system. Finally, to meet the future high-density and high-volume aviation transport demands, comprehensive and systematic reforms in ATM systems of civil aviation is imperative. With continuous innovations in air traffic operation systems, advanced intelligent algorithms for decision-making support, and communication capabilities, autonomous operations are expected to become a platform for deploying and integrating multiple advanced technologies, ultimately leading to a significant breakthrough in air traffic capabilities in China and around the world.