Register

How It Works: Terrain Awareness and Warning System

TAWS pulls aircraft position, speed and direction data from GPS and, along with the aircraft's altitude and configuration information, compares them to a database of Earth's terrain and manmade obstacles. Illustration by Bryan Christie Design
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The Terrain Awareness and Warning System (TAWS) has significantly reduced controlled flight into terrain (CFIT) accidents, making it a vital safety technology in aviation.
  • TAWS operates by comparing aircraft flight data (position, speed, altitude) from GPS with a detailed terrain and obstacle database to issue preventive alerts to pilots.
  • Building on the original ground proximity warning system, TAWS provides various critical warnings, including high sink rates, rapid terrain closure, and incorrect landing gear/flap configurations.
See a mistake? Contact us.

Accidents attributed to controlled flight into terrain (CFIT) have decreased significantly over the years thanks to the introduction of the terrain awareness and warning system (TAWS). The technology provides life-saving information and serves as a vital layer of protection as aircraft navigate changing terrain in various weather conditions.

Ready to Sell Your Aircraft?

List your airplane on AircraftForSale.com and reach qualified buyers.

List Your Aircraft
AircraftForSale Logo | FLYING Logo
Pilot in aircraft
Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox.

SUBSCRIBE