I'd like to start by acknowledging that I'm sure this feature has been suggested before to Frontier, and that it's long been known that this wouldn't be a thing, ever.
However;
I'd like to propose a basic Long-Distance Auto-Pilot feature for Elite Dangerous that automatically plots and flies between systems along a set route.
This wouldn’t be a flawless, hands-off system—it would simply handle jumping between stars, avoid most stellar obstacles, fuel scoop to ~80% when needed, and align for the next jump. It wouldn’t need to auto-scan systems, optimize fuel scooping speed, or handle complex scenarios like Neutron stars or tightly packed binaries.
The goal is a straightforward "plot-and-go" tool that still requires player oversight, not a replacement for skill or engagement.
This feature feels like a natural extension of existing mechanics—flight assist, SuperCruise assist, auto-docking, auto-landing, and auto-launch all prove automation already has a place in the game. Ignoring a basic long-distance autopilot overlooks this precedent, especially when it could be intentionally imperfect, preserving the need for situational awareness.
Long trade or exploration routes can feel unnecessarily tedious for most CMDRs, yet monitoring for mishaps (like star collisions or fuel miscalculations) would keep pilots in the loop, risking ship damage if ignored.
This isn’t about removing challenge—it’s about reducing repetitive strain, while aligning with Elite’s established design.
It’s a feature that seems so obviously missing it’s surprising it’s not already here. I’d love to see it added to enhance, not detract from, the core experience.
Thank you for considering this, probably for not the first time!
o7 CMDRs
However;
I'd like to propose a basic Long-Distance Auto-Pilot feature for Elite Dangerous that automatically plots and flies between systems along a set route.
This wouldn’t be a flawless, hands-off system—it would simply handle jumping between stars, avoid most stellar obstacles, fuel scoop to ~80% when needed, and align for the next jump. It wouldn’t need to auto-scan systems, optimize fuel scooping speed, or handle complex scenarios like Neutron stars or tightly packed binaries.
The goal is a straightforward "plot-and-go" tool that still requires player oversight, not a replacement for skill or engagement.
This feature feels like a natural extension of existing mechanics—flight assist, SuperCruise assist, auto-docking, auto-landing, and auto-launch all prove automation already has a place in the game. Ignoring a basic long-distance autopilot overlooks this precedent, especially when it could be intentionally imperfect, preserving the need for situational awareness.
Long trade or exploration routes can feel unnecessarily tedious for most CMDRs, yet monitoring for mishaps (like star collisions or fuel miscalculations) would keep pilots in the loop, risking ship damage if ignored.
This isn’t about removing challenge—it’s about reducing repetitive strain, while aligning with Elite’s established design.
It’s a feature that seems so obviously missing it’s surprising it’s not already here. I’d love to see it added to enhance, not detract from, the core experience.
Thank you for considering this, probably for not the first time!
o7 CMDRs
