AN AIRCRAFT MANUFACTURER'S VIEWPOINT: WHO'S IN CHARGE ANYWAY?

This paper contains the viewpoints of an aircraft manufacturer on future airport and airspace operations. A broad view is given concerning cockpit technology, aircraft operational capabilities, human factors, and the role of aircraft and pilots. It is concluded that technical methods are available or can be developed to resolve many foreseeable problems. However, the real limitations are those associated with all large-scale systems. What is wanted and needed is not understood and consequently real requirements are not understood. Current experience, traditional procedures, and current problems are extrapolated blindly and lead to unnecessary limitations. Highly integrated solutions are devised in which all parts are critical to the proper function of the whole system, and that require revolutionary changes when only step-by-step evolution is possible. The rigidity of institutions and organizations can not be overcome, and there is a lack of communication. In the words of the author, "I think the problem is not with the things, but with ourselves. We can regain control if we get our act together."

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  • Supplemental Notes:
    • This paper appeared in Transportation Research Circular No. 325, Airport and Terminal-Area Operations of the Future, Report of a Special Meeting, National Academy of Sciences, October 7-8, 1986, Washington, D.C. Distribution, posting, or copying of this PDF is strictly prohibited without written permission of the Transportation Research Board of the National Academy of Sciences. Unless otherwise indicated, all materials in this PDF are copyrighted by the National Academy of Sciences. Copyright © National Academy of Sciences. All rights reserved.
  • Corporate Authors:

    Transportation Research Board

    500 Fifth Street, NW
    Washington, DC  United States  20001
  • Authors:
    • Graham, J M
  • Publication Date: 1987-12

Media Info

  • Media Type: Digital/other
  • Features: Figures; Tables;
  • Pagination: p. 53-62
  • Serial:

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Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 00465583
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Files: TRIS, TRB
  • Created Date: Feb 29 1988 12:00AM