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As airlines and aircraft worldwide prepare for the NextGen air transportation system, they seek an easy and affordable way to display GPS-based Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) information, critical to enhancing safety, increasing access and efficiency, and improving aviation's environmental footprint. The advanced SmartDisplay® electronic flight bag (EFB) system from Goodrich Corporation's Sensors and Integrated Systems business is being positioned as the backbone of an affordable ADS-B In capable cockpit data management solution for airlines. The company has developed a unique upgradable system to provide airlines a path to unlocking the benefits provided by the new NextGen and Single European Sky ATM Research (SESAR) air transportation systems.
The Goodrich SmartDisplay EFB is the leading EFB system on the market today that is capable of running Windows-based applications or FAA-certified ADS-B In applications. In late 2012, Goodrich will introduce its new NextGen SmartDisplay EFB system; it employs a unique dual-partitioned architecture EFB system to enable FAA-certified software applications, as well as Windows-based EFB applications, to be operated concurrently on the same EFB system. The system will enable airlines to support current EFB functional needs while positioning them to meet the emerging NextGen and SESAR application needs.
Goodrich is participating in two FAA-sponsored NextGen demonstration programs intended to quantify and validate the benefits of ADS-B In technology. In one of the programs, Goodrich is working with US Airways to equip the airline's Airbus A330 fleet with Class 3 SmartDisplay® EFBs in order to support development and certification of ADS-B In applications relating to Interval Management (Merging and Spacing and CDTI Assisted Visual Separation). In the other program, Goodrich Class 3 EFBs are being used on United Airlines' Boeing 747-400 aircraft in an operational evaluation of an ADS-B In oceanic In-Trail Procedure (ITP) application on South Pacific routes.
Goodrich and US Airways are also participating in EUROCONTROL's Pioneers ADS-B ITP demonstration program in the North Atlantic. The Pioneer project is part of EUROCONTROL's larger CASCADE program, which coordinates the European implementation of ADS-B.
Goodrich, as well as the participating airlines and regulatory authorities, expects these demonstrations to validate the operational benefits of ADS-B In technology relating to improved efficiency, reduced fuel costs, improved safety, and reduced emissions and carbon footprint. With the benefits and business case for ADS-B In equipage verified, Goodrich expects significant acceleration in the implementation of the new technology. EFBs are seen as a natural platform for NextGen functionality, as they represent a faster and more affordable means for upgrading aircraft with the new technology when compared with changes to the primary flight display system.
The Goodrich SmartDisplay EFB combines both the computer and display in one compact and lightweight unit. It provides seamless compatibility with any wired or wireless network. The EFBs can be pre-loaded with a suite of customer-selected applications such as airport moving map, take-off performance tools, electronic navigation charts and other electronic documents. In addition, the Goodrich team can develop customized applications specific to a customer's needs.
Goodrich EFBs are certified on a variety of commercial jets, including the Airbus A320, A330, A340 families; Boeing 737 Next Generation, 747-400, 777, and MD-11; Bombardier CRJ700/900; Embraer 170 and 190; and Sukhoi Superjet 100. |
