We start the new year with an updated look and a number of new features for the magazine. We are particularly excited to bring you our first global airline roundtable where we interview seven technology executives from some of the world’s major airlines. The featured executives talk about a variety of issues, from the importance of iPads in operations to next generation avionics upgrades such as Electronic Flight Bags (EFBs). One of the aims of the publication this year is to expand global reach and coverage, and this roundtable marks the beginning of this effort. For me, these interviews provide a fascinating encounter with the direction industry leaders are taking as they look into new technologies for aircraft; it almost feels like glimpsing the start of a new era. Certainly, thanks to devices like iPads, the whole way in which airlines are using technology is changing, and it will be interesting to see how apps and tablets can help improve their efficiency.
Speaking of futuristic technologies, we also have a great article on enhanced vision systems and synthetic vision systems, which further reveals the new direction technology is headed. It used to be that synthetic and enhanced vision systems were the domain of Sci-Fi movies, however this technology is no longer just a concept, but fast becoming a commercial reality. These technologies could have huge potential benefits to flight operations, and with new systems being rolled out, it will be noteworthy to see how such systems will fare in real cockpits.
We also have an update on the F-16 aircraft, a round-up of all of the avionics news from around the world, as well as our traditional Product Focus feature, always a popular one.
As we kick off this new year, we anticipate exciting changes for our industry, with new technologies entering the marketplace, as well as growth opportunities emerging in markets across the world.