As aircraft become more computerised - and even pilotless - they’re also more vulnerable to space events like the giant solar flare that put an Airbus into an ‘uncommanded’ dive and grounded thousands of flights. So should we praise Airbus for acting quickly, or rethink the risk of autopilot systems?  

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This episode of The Front is presented and produced by Claire Harvey and edited by Lia Tsamoglou. Our team includes Kristen Amiet, Tiffany Dimmack, Joshua Burton, Stephanie Coombes and Jasper Leak, who also composed our music.