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Honeywell Demonstrates SURF-A Runway Incursion Avoidance Tech

Once certified by the FAA, the software that creates a "third set of eyes" in the cockpit can be installed in existing and new production aircraft, according to the manufacturer.

The Honeywell 757 was equipped with cameras in the cockpit and computer monitors in the observer seats to show the pilot's view. [Courtesy: Meg Godlewski]
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Honeywell is developing Surface Alert (SURF-A) software to prevent dangerous aviation incidents like runway incursions, overruns, and landings on incorrect surfaces.
  • The company is actively testing SURF-A on its Boeing 757, conducting demonstration flights that simulate real-world scenarios to showcase its ability to alert pilots to potential hazards.
  • SURF-A integrates with existing cockpit systems (EGPWS, Smart X), using GPS, ADS-B, and advanced analytics to provide timely aural and textual warnings, with FAA certification anticipated in 12-18 months.
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When an aircraft is someplace it isn’t supposed to be, it often results in a potentially dangerous situation, putting the lives of the flight crew and passengers at risk. These run the gamut from incursions when an aircraft doesn’t have permission to be on the runway because another one is already there, excursions—or runway overruns—and wrong-surface events, such as an aircraft landing on the wrong runway or on a taxiway by mistake.

In April, Honeywell announced development of Surface Alert (SURF-A), a software technology that will help pilots avoid these types of events. Now the company is testing the product using its specially equipped Boeing 757.

Meg Godlewski

Meg Godlewski has been an aviation journalist for more than 24 years and a CFI for more than 20 years. If she is not flying or teaching aviation, she is writing about it. Meg is a founding member of the Pilot Proficiency Center at EAA AirVenture and excels at the application of simulation technology to flatten the learning curve. Follow Meg on Twitter @2Lewski.

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