Abstract: A method automatically controls the movement of a winch device (2), which is adapted to pull in or let out a cable (T), to which at least one flying device 4 is connected. The method includes the following subsequent steps: a) determining the relative position between the winch device (2) and the flying device (4); b) calculating the optimal length of the cable “T” as a function of the relative distance determined during the previous step; c) activating said winch device (2), so as to obtain the desired length of the cable “T” calculated during the previous step; d) repeating the sequence of steps a)-c) for a desired amount of time; in order to obtain, in real time, the optimal length of the cable (T) as a function of the changes in the relative position between the winch device (2) and the flying device (4).

Abstract: A soft landing system (10) includes an air cushion structure (12) includes a housing portion (14), adapted to house a load (V); a support portion (15), connected to the housing portion (14) and inflatable with fluid under pressure. Tubular elements (16; 116) are adapted to be inflated, thus taking an outstretched configuration in which the tubular elements (16; 116) support the housing portion (14). A breather apparatus (17) is adapted to gradually deflate the tubular elements (16; 116) when the structure 812) is free falling integrally with the load (V) and the support portion (15) hits the ground.