Are we ready for autonomous flights?
Read today's edition of Gate Access • May 25, 2026
This newsletter may contain affiliate links, meaning Gate Access may earn a small commission if you purchase through them.
It’s Memorial Day.
My scoop on TSA Gold+ made some huge noise in these media streets last week. I was mentioned in The New York Times, amongst others, for obtaining the official guidance that was emailed to employees.
Amid the news, the City of Atlanta Council leaders approved a feasibility plan last week to begin the process of potentially privatizing security at the world's busiest airport.
I spoke with CBS News Atlanta about it. More about Byron Amos, the councilman who is leading this initiative, below.
On the radar
Late last week, mixed coverage began taking over the internet surrounding a page update (April 27th, 2026) on the official TSA website that covers medical marijuana. I want to be clear, nothing has changed, and it is illegal to travel with marijuana through TSA checkpoints.
Byron Amos, the councilman leading the initiative to privatize airport security screening at Atlanta’s Airport — the busiest airport in the world — owns a private security company. I’m not claiming that his push for privatization is self-motivated. I’m simply spotlighting an interesting fact. If this moves forward, it’ll be interesting to see which company gets the contract.
United Airlines is expanding its use of AI with a new tool called “Connection Saver,” designed to help airport staff decide whether to hold flights for passengers running late on connections.
JetBlue Airways is betting big on expansion at Fort Lauderdale Airport after the sudden collapse of Spirit Airlines. Introduces a new loyalty match for previous Spirit Airlines Silver and Gold members. American Airlines is also welcoming Spirit Airlines members to transfer miles.
Remote TSA screening is becoming a thing. Travelers can now receive TSA screening miles away from the airport at the new Logan Airport Remote Terminal in Framingham, Massachusetts.
The Logan Airport Remote Terminal at Framingham (Credit landlineco.com)
AI is learning how to fly planes
A startup called Merlin Labs recently let a CNN reporter ride in a Cessna Caravan where the AI flew the entire plane.
The test pilot sat there with his hands off the controls the whole time.
I’m not too sure how I feel about this, but it’s happening, and I believe travelers deserve to know what’s developing.
What the data is telling us:
Boeing projects the industry will need 600,000+ new pilots over the next 20 years — and AI is being positioned as part of the answer.
80% of aviation accidents are still caused by human error, according to Merlin Labs CEO Matthew George — that’s the argument being made for automation.
Merlin just landed a $100M+ contract with the U.S. Special Operations Command to bring this technology to C-130 cargo planes — the military will likely test it first.
The FAA certification process is notoriously rigorous, often requiring years of testing before any new system gets approved.
This release of Gate Access is presented by Blackmon & Bougie. Enjoy this TSA-friendly 3.4-ounce body & room mist with hints of bergamot, lemon, and geranium on your next trip. Check it out and use code TRAVEL for additional savings.
That last bullet point means we’re not close, but these AI systems are being embraced by the powers that be, and if I’m being honest, I’m not comfortable boarding a plane with no human pilot.
“The most important safety feature on every airline flight will always be two well-trained and rested pilots on the flightdeck.”
President of the Air Line Pilots Association, Capt. Jason Ambrosi (CNN)
I agree with that completely.
But here’s what concerns me most as this technology inches forward: transparency.
If the day ever comes when a commercial flight operates without a physical pilot on board, the traveling public deserves to know, and the disclaimer needs to be loud and clear.
Not buried in fine print.
Let me be clear, I’m not opposed to the idea of AI assistance on planes. I think that’s definitely inevitable, and it’s already being used at some level in cockpits today.
My concern is solely on autonomous flights, meaning flying without a physical pilot.
Granted, I’m not a pilot, and the CEO of Merlin Labs is a pilot, so that suggests to me that this technology is being designed to reflect the weak spots of pilots and tech advancements.
All in all, I don't think the general traveling public is ready or will be ready for this in my lifetime.
Recently, Waymo — the self-driving car company — suspended operations in the City of Atlanta after its vehicles failed to detect floodwaters on the road.
If this is what’s happening on the ground with vehicles, imagine what could happen in the sky with planes.
Travel tip of the week
Did you miss the last release?
One last thing
Gate Access is growing, and I’m looking for strategic partners/supporters who believe in my mission to build the future of independent travel media through the lens of active and former aviation workers.
If you’re interested in learning more, send me an email: caleb@withtheharmony.com