co-pilot on flying it still remains the “golden rule” to ensure that someone can land the plane in case the first pilot is unable to fly it.

But as the aviation sector begins to embrace artificial intelligence, it’s possible we’ll see single-pilot aircraft, says Emirates President Tim Clark.

Speaking of CNBC’s Hadley Gamble, he suggested it would likely be some time before commercial flights start piloted. He even admitted that this development might not please most travelers. “They want to believe that there are two pilots,” he added.

As the scope and power of artificial intelligence grows rapidly, it is important that the aviation sector calmly assess the changes that AI technology can bring, Clarke said, adding: “Use it, use it. Don’t be afraid of her.”

“A lot of people are worried about what AI should and should not do (…), but if you work in the business world and something so powerful is just around the corner, if you depend on processes and human potential, you need to take your time and think like A.I. it can improve what you do,” he added.

As for the future of “drones,” Clarke said it was possible, but far away, noting that he himself would not see it.

“Can an airplane fly fully automatically? Yes, they could, technology is now just at such a level, [αλλά] in my opinion, there will always be someone in the cockpit,” added Clark.

The autonomous aircraft market is currently in its infancy, although some startups are focusing on developing drones with an eye to the future.

Source: CNNBC.