Getting the kinks out of the global rescue system: new radio beacons for stranded planes and ships could cut down on false alarms

Article Abstract:

The global satellite-based rescue system, which locates downed airplanes and wrecked ships, has experienced a false-alarm rate of 97 percent, which has translated into wasted time and money. In spring 1989, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) proposed new standards for radio-signal devices carried on airplanes, and since Aug 1989, the Coast Guard has required most commercial ships to carry such equipment. The new beacons are a refined version of the older, error-prone ones. According to James Bailey, head of the search-and-rescue system for the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration, the new devices reduce false alarms to less than 9 percent. In the past, stranded people often waited for days or weeks to be rescued. Since 1982, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration has operated Sarsat (Search and Rescue Satellite Aided Tracking System), which has "removed the search from 'search and rescue'." The system is also notable because it represents an unusual cooperative effort, predating 'glasnost,' between the United States and the Soviet Union.

Land, mineral, wildlife conservation, Regulation, admin. of transportation, Standards, United States, Usage, Safety and security measures, Telecommunications systems, Satellite communications, United States foreign relations, Transportation, Navigation, Remote sensing, Ships, United States. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Soviet foreign relations, Soviet Union, Survival after airplane accidents, shipwrecks, etc., Survival, United States. Federal Aviation Administration, Search and rescue operations, Life-saving, Lifesaving, Radio beacons, Artificial satellites in navigation, Satellite navigation, Safety, Radio Communication, Radio navigation, Radio navigation systems

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American electronics companies still rule the cockpit

Article Abstract:

Cockpit electronics have become so sophisticated that they could almost take the place of a pilot. Computers and video displays are replacing the gauges, dials and switches that were, until recently, characteristic of the cockpit in a jetliner. Computers and electronics - called avionics - now account for as much as 10 percent of a jetliner's price. The avionics industry has grown at about 20 percent annually for the past three years. Today's market for commercial jets is $2 billion a year, and analysts foresee seven to 10 percent annual growth for the decade. The industry is currently dominated by three American companies - Bendix/King, a division of Allied Signal Aerospace Company; Collins Avionics, a division of the Rockwell International Corp; and Honeywell Inc. All are enjoying record growth.

Search and navigation equipment, Analysis, Product information, Forecasts and trends, Aerospace industry, Air traffic control, Growth (Physiology), Avionics, Honeywell Inc., HON, Growth, Industry Analysis, Airline Industry, Aerospace industries, Allied-Signal Aerospace Co. Bendix-King Air Transport Avionics Div., Rockwell International Corp. Collins Avionics Div.

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Computers may help on takeoff

Article Abstract:

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is developing an on-board computer system that will monitor airplane performance on takeoff, one of the most likely times for a craft to crash. The system will display the point at which an airplane will lift off, at which point the takeoff attempt may not be aborted. Aborted takeoffs at high speed can be fatal. The new system will measure the acceleration of the plane before it reaches the critical speed, known as VI, that differs for all runways and weather conditions. The system is not yet accurate enough for commercial use. NASA scientists are also working to produce a similar system to monitor the landing of aircraft.

Electronic computers, Research, Technology application, Flight control systems

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