Pilotingpilot

Pilotingpilot is a term used in discussions of piloting systems that blends the concept of piloting with the notion of a pilot as an actor. It is not a standardized technical term, but rather a neologism found in online forums, speculative fiction, and some research proposals to describe a piloting framework in which control responsibilities are distributed across multiple agents or layers.

Definition: In its broadest sense, pilotingpilot refers to a command-and-control arrangement where real-time flight control is shared between human operators and autonomous or assisted subsystems. This can take the form of dual operators, a human supervising an automated autopilot, or a software co-pilot that handles routine maneuvers while a human provides higher-level decision making.

Etymology and usage: The term combines piloting with pilot to emphasize the collaboration between human and machine in the act of piloting, rather than a single agent performing all tasks.

Concepts: Pilotingpilot is related to but distinct from autopilot and teleoperation. It emphasizes distributed responsibility, layered autonomy, and human-in-the-loop or shared-control architectures, where latency, reliability, and situational awareness are critical design considerations.

Applications and research: Potential uses include advanced flight training, unmanned or hybrid aerial systems, spacecraft operations, and robotic vehicles, especially where robust fail-safes and operator oversight are valued.

Limitations: The lack of standard definition, varying interpretations, and practical challenges such as cognitive load, latency, and safety certification.