Will self-flying planes transform the skies?

Self-flying planes are quietly advancing beyond crop-spraying and cargo delivery, with companies like Pyka, Reliable Robotics, and Merlin Labs racing toward eventual passenger service. Pyka's pilotless crop-sprayer, already operating in Brazil and California, flies lower than human pilots can, reducing chemical use. These companies are taking different approaches to AI and safety certification, but all face strict regulatory standards before autonomous passenger flights become reality.