Fri, May 13, 2005
Boeing has just delivered a 737
equipped with an advanced landing system that will guide the
airplane to runways with unprecedented accuracy.
Boeing notes that, "Unlike current technology, which relies
solely on information from ground stations, the Global Positioning
Landing System (GLS) integrates data from the global navigation
satellite system, ground stations and a multi-mode receiver on the
airplane to provide pinpoint accuracy of the airplane's position
relative to the runway and surrounding terrain."
"Boeing is committed to a safe and effective global air
transportation system. This precision approach and landing
information will enhance safety by significantly improving takeoff
and landing capability at airports around the world," said Captain
Ray Craig, 737 Chief Pilot. "GLS increases the Next-Generation
737's lead as the most technologically advanced airplane in its
class, and enhances the revenue-generating capability for
airlines."
The FAA certified the GLS system following an extensive
three-year testing program, during which the system proved to be a
reliable and flawless navigation system suitable for automatic
landings and low visibility takeoffs. JAA certification is expected
soon.
Initially, GLS is certified to support Category I operations,
which allow airplanes to operate in low visibility conditions. In
the future, as GLS ground stations become available worldwide, the
system will be able to support Category III operations, which allow
airplanes to operate in very low or near zero visibility
conditions.
The 737-800 is the first and only large commercial airplane
certified and equipped with this sophisticated technology. GLS was
one of nine new leading-edge technologies successfully tested and
demonstrated on the 737 Technology Demonstrator airplane during
2002. Of the nine emerging technology features, six have now been
certified and delivered on the 737.
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