Honeywell's Surface Alert software is focused on reducing the number of runway incursions. [Credit: iStock]
Key Takeaways:
Honeywell is developing SURF-A (Surface Alert), a new software technology designed to reduce runway incursions and surface incidents by enhancing pilot situational awareness.
SURF-A uses GPS data, ADS-B equipment, and advanced analytics to provide pilots with real-time aural and visual alerts regarding potential collisions with other aircraft or ground vehicles on the runway.
The system specifically targets the most serious categories (A and B) of runway incursions, acting as an "ever-vigilant third set of eyes" for flight crews.
Following successful flight tests, SURF-A is expected to be released within 18 to 24 months, contributing to a multifaceted approach to aviation safety.
One of the axioms of aviation is you can do everything right, but if someone else messes up— like starting their takeoff roll before your airplane clears the active runway—you still get hurt.
Runway incursions happen, and Honeywell is focusing on software that will help reduce their numbers.
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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.
