An automated towed cargo glider.

AC0 fits neatly into existing loading operations common across America's regional & national air cargo carriers. Towed consists of planes use the same loading facilities & procedures as the tow planes it is paired with.

Once loaded, the rear plane is hooked up to its partner tow plane by a single pilot. During hook-up, the tow system is in a retracted state, allowing for operations to be held in close proximity.

AC0 consists fit seamlessly into ground operations at airports large and small. The consist taxis with the tow system in a retracted state, enabling uninterrupted tight maneuvers through congested airport ground environments.

Shortly before takeoff, the tow system extends to add distance between the aircraft.

The rear plane keeps engines on idle and takes off in-tow behind the main aircraft.

Despite the higher mass, takeoff & climb performance of the consist is similar to that of the lead plane flying independently.

This means the consist is capable of taking off on the same runways and with similar climb profiles as the primary tow plane is alone. 

AC0's Pilot Positioning Assist system helps the rear plane identify & stay in the optimal position behind its partner, even as that position changes with atmospheric conditions & maneuvering of the consist.
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When in the optimal position, the rear plane produces minimal drag and a relatively small force on the towline, even when its engines are off.

The result: AC0 allows air cargo operators to achieve industry-leading fuel savings.

The rear plane lands behind its partner plane in tow, touching down shortly after its partner reaches ground.