Delta Airlines is Testing iPads in the Cockpit with its Pilots

[Maura]

According to MacRumors, Delta Airlines has started running tests on the feasibility of using iPads as EFBs (Electronic Flight Bags) in the cockpit, with an eye to saving on weight and improving communications with pilots. Pilots are currently allowed to use the iPads before take-off, and when the plane is above 10,000 feet, which is the same rule as for passengers. Steve Dickson, Delta’s senior vice president for flight operations told Flightglobal that they have loaded the iPads with “Jeppesen Mobile TC charting software, a GoodReader document viewer that contains all of our manuals in an electronic format, and the Journey browser, which allows access to iCrew.†Dickson added that a Delta meteorology app has also been included in the package for, with the aim of providing pilot-tailored graphical weather information and real-time looped Delta radar. Delta is clearly very forward-thinking in its technology, as MacRumors reports that after already fitting its domestic fleet with in-flight Wi-Fi for customers via Gogo, it is also looking into adding the facility to international flights as well.

“A tablet device sets the foundation for a paperless cockpit of course with flight plan and charter packet uploads, theatre guides and trans-oceanic step by step information, simplified NOTAMS, e-Checklists, and instant reporting access just to name a few opportunites,†said Dickson.

Source: Delta Testing iPads for Real-Time Communications With Pilots - Mac Rumors

 

[carlosarias1]

as long as the pilots know what to do in case of "electronic" problems im ok.

 

[jwt873]

I'd like to see two or even three iPads on the flight deck just in case one fails..

 

[thewitt]

United just announced a full paperless cockpit. They are purchasing 11,000 iPads by the end of the year...

-t