Collins’ CEO ‘Frustrated’ With ATM Transition

Rockwell Collins Chairman and CEO Clayton M. Jones said he is frustrated with the pace of the nation’s transition to a more efficient air traffic management system. Since the now-retired “Free Flight” concept was advanced in the mid-1990s, the United States “is only slightly closer” to the vision of a flexible, next-generation ATM system that can handle growing demand, Jones said, holding his thumb and forefinger apart to emphasize. Jones spoke to a RTCA symposium March 14 in Washington, D.C. In the last decade, Jones said his “emotion has changed from excitement to frustration. … Today, we’re facing exactly the same situation we had in ’95. The system is still not managed as effectively as possible, adding time and adding cost.” The theme of the RTCA symposium was “The Bridge To NextGen,” referring to FAA’s name for the satellite-based air navigation system planned by 2025. Jones, however, questioned whether that system will be achieved. “Who among you is ready to bet the ranch that NextGen is going to happen, or even be known as that” in the future, he asked. The transition, he added, is “mired in process and hindered by bureaucracy.” Jones said more integration of the airborne and ground aspects of NextGen is needed, and he described FAA’s Operational Evolution Partnership (OEP) approach as “a great first step.” He also called for adequate federal funding of both the multi-agency Joint Planning and Development Office planning NextGen, and FAA implementation programs. NASA’s traditional role in research, development, test and evaluation also must be restored, Jones said.