ATM ModernizationAvionics System Design: Asking the Question 'Why?' In several discussions recently, I found myself explaining why some aviation and mil-spec techniques and methods are used, and it struck me that commonly we know the how, but not the why…
MilitaryThe Space Shuttle, Modernized The space shuttle cockpit is getting a facelift. The U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA’s) four shuttles have flown 95 missions since 1981, equipped with 1970s/80s avionics technology. Now they are…
MilitaryTwice the Bang for the Buck American taxpayers should be pleased. The U.S. Marine Corps has taken on an unusual upgrade program that is faithful to the service’s reputation of accomplishing more with less. The program is unique…
ATM ModernizationEditor's Note: Celebrating an Industry As you will no doubt quickly notice, two new special features have been added to Avionics Magazine. Initially obvious—because it appears on our cover—is the magazine’s new, annual recognition of the industry’s…
ATM ModernizationSafety: If It Was Good Enough for The Wright Brothers ... An angle-of-attack indicator is needed in the cockpit of every airplane. "It’s the most useful piece of information you can get," declared Capt. Ron Rogers, an A320 pilot. Rogers, who is also…
ATM ModernizationAvionics System Design: The Problem with Knowledge in the Head Those of you who may have read Donald Norman’s The Psychology of Everyday Things (also released as The Design of Everyday Things) will understand the title of this month’s column perfectly. For…
CommercialComing Up in Corporate Cockpits Here’s what is happening in business jet cockpits: Integrated avionics and liquid crystal displays (LCDs) are becoming standard equipment; Head-up displays (HUDs) are gaining in popularity; and Enhanced vision systems, data link…
ATM ModernizationExecutive of the Year James L. Pierce, chairman and CEO of ARINC Inc. and current chairman of RTCA, is an unassuming man, considering his outstanding career and two very important titles. One would be mislead, however,…