Boeing has patented an aircraft remote control system in a bid to eliminate the threat of terrorist hijackings, and prevent any repetition of the events of 911. 'Scientists at Boeing are testing the tamper-proof autopilot system which uses sophisticated computer and satellite technology. It will be activated by a pilot switch, by pressure sensors fitted to the cockpit door that will respond to any excessive force (and also has a few other activation modes that won't be disclosed for security reasons). Once triggered, no one on board will be able to deactivate the system.

This 'uninterruptible autopilot system' is based upon IASA's Sep 2001 RoboLander concept (tinyurl.com/yqhcam). Once activated, a threatened or hijacked airliner could be flown to a secure military base or a commercial airport, where it would autoland, using an existing technology. The technology is meant to augment the EU's SAFEE anti-hijacking system. Boeing plans to start including the as yet unnamed avionics in new builds from as early as 2010.