Why the Black Box Debate Isn't Over

Why the Black Box Debate Isn’t Over

Stephen Pope

Wednesday, June 15, 2011 at 12:38 AM ET

Verified

Flight Data Recorder Flying

Key Takeaways:

Honeywell, a flight data recorder manufacturer, is acquiring EMS Technologies, a leading provider of airborne satellite communications systems.
This merger is speculated to reignite discussions about and accelerate the implementation of live flight data transmission from aircraft, especially during emergencies.
Proponents, including satcom companies like Iridium, advocate for real-time data transmission due to available technology (e.g., AFIRS system) and safety benefits, despite some arguments for the continued sufficiency of traditional black boxes.
The potential for a lucrative new business model built around live flight data services is a significant driver behind this possible shift.

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I’m wondering: Will Honeywell’s announcement that it’s acquiring airborne satcom system specialist EMS Technologies reignite calls for airlines to transmit live flight-data information rather than relying on what can be obtained from black boxes found at a crash site?

Here’s why I ask: Honeywell is the maker of the flight data recorder used aboard doomed Air France Flight 447. EMS Technologies is the world’s leading supplier of the type of satellite communications gear that could be used to beam flight-related information to airline data centers on the ground.