[sand500]

Instead, can we implement autonomous formation flying? Each aircraft can still have its own engines and control, but can make a V shape allowing the following planes to run more efficiently.

[nickff]

This has been attempted (for a military aircraft IIRC), and proved too difficult to be practical. It may now be possible, but it is more challenging that it appears from just watching our feathered friends.

[jayde2767]

I doubt the economics make it a viable use case.