NextGen: A Proactive Approach To Accident Investigations
NextGen: A Proactive Approach
To Accident Investigations
D. R. Simmons
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Abstract
This paper examines the current status of the air traffic control system and the inherent problems therein. Future probabilities inherent in air traffic control are reviewed. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has provided a solution to the problems in the form of Next Generation Air Transportation (NextGen). The advancements of air traffic control with the implementation of NextGen technology are discussed, as well as the impacts on the National Airspace (NAS). Finally, the examination of how NextGen affects accident scene investigations and the National Transportation Safety Board is considered.
Introduction Behind every successful pilot with a successful flight, are the successful Air Traffic Controllers who guided that pilot to their destination. In a world where pilots get all of the glory, controllers are the unsung heroes who live in the pilots’ shadows. Indeed, Air Traffic Controllers are responsible for the safety of all of the aircraft in the skies, whether they are taking off, en route, or landing. While the pilots get passengers from point of origin to destination, it is the Air Traffic Controllers who them how to do it safely. Safety is the main priority for Air Traffic Controllers, and this focus has paid off. The United States Air Traffic Control System is considered to be the safest in the world ("Keeping america 's skies," 2009). At any given time there are approximately 7,000 aircraft in the air over America (Houston, 2012), including commercial, military, civilian, and government aircraft. This statistic is only expected to increase over the next two decades. This could put a major strain on an aging control system. While some of the increase in air traffic could be alleviated by new airports, airport expansions, and additional runways, an overhaul of the existing traffic control
To Accident Investigations
D. R. Simmons
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Abstract
This paper examines the current status of the air traffic control system and the inherent problems therein. Future probabilities inherent in air traffic control are reviewed. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has provided a solution to the problems in the form of Next Generation Air Transportation (NextGen). The advancements of air traffic control with the implementation of NextGen technology are discussed, as well as the impacts on the National Airspace (NAS). Finally, the examination of how NextGen affects accident scene investigations and the National Transportation Safety Board is considered.
Introduction Behind every successful pilot with a successful flight, are the successful Air Traffic Controllers who guided that pilot to their destination. In a world where pilots get all of the glory, controllers are the unsung heroes who live in the pilots’ shadows. Indeed, Air Traffic Controllers are responsible for the safety of all of the aircraft in the skies, whether they are taking off, en route, or landing. While the pilots get passengers from point of origin to destination, it is the Air Traffic Controllers who them how to do it safely. Safety is the main priority for Air Traffic Controllers, and this focus has paid off. The United States Air Traffic Control System is considered to be the safest in the world ("Keeping america 's skies," 2009). At any given time there are approximately 7,000 aircraft in the air over America (Houston, 2012), including commercial, military, civilian, and government aircraft. This statistic is only expected to increase over the next two decades. This could put a major strain on an aging control system. While some of the increase in air traffic could be alleviated by new airports, airport expansions, and additional runways, an overhaul of the existing traffic control
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