With a United 737-8 jet serving as
Boeing’s 2025 ecoDemonstrator Explorer, pilots conducted test flight
evaluating a modernized data communications system designed to improve
information flow between the flight deck, air traffic control and airline
operation centers along with reducing air traffic congestion, fuel use, cost
and emissions.
"Boeing is proud to lead the advancement of digital
communications that significantly enhance safety and operational efficiency in
commercial aviation," said Boeing Chief Technology Officer Todd Citron in
a statement.
He added, "Our collaboration with United
Airlines and the industry team is a pivotal step towards improving the
reliability and speed of communication between the flight deck and air traffic
control to enable safer, more efficient flight for the flying public."
Flight testing on the 2025 Boeing ecoDemonstrator began in
late October for almost two weeks on U.S. flights based in Houston and European
flights based in Edinburgh, Scotland.
United 737 Chief Test Pilot Andy McKee said, “The
ecoDemonstrator project is an outstanding collaboration to help support the
ongoing upgrades within our air traffic control system and enhance safety for
our customers and the global aviation community. After many months of careful
planning, United is proud to have executed this flight test effort with Boeing
and our other partners, leveraging the expertise of all our teammates to help
shape the future of flight."
The ecoDemonstrator program has tested more than 250
technologies to enhance safety, reduce fuel use, emissions and noise and
improve operational efficiency and the passenger experience.
Participants in the ecoDemonstrator Explorer project also
include:
- Collins Aerospace, Honeywell, SITA, Thales,
Viasat
- European Space Agency (ESA), Federal Aviation
Administration, NASA Air Traffic Management – eXploration Project
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
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