UPS pushing its jet fleet into digital information age

LOUISVILLE, Ky.–UPS will retrofit much of its jet fleet with a computerized display system that will improve safety in the air and on the ground while reducing fuel use and making the pilot’s job easier, the company says.

The retrofit program “basically reflects our belief that this technology is ready and should be applied to jets now in service,” said Bob Lekites, vice president, UPS Airline and International Operations.

“This system will support software programs that make available in the cockpit information that today exists only on paper or in the hands of air traffic controllers,” Lekites added. “Ultimately, it will help pilots with navigation and allow them to space their aircraft on their own; call up the most complete and accurate long-range weather maps; warn of potential collisions on the ground; push the maintenance logbook into the digital age, and place the entire flight manual within easy electronic recall.”

The retrofit program, which will begin with 107 B-757 and B-767 aircraft in the UPS fleet, will equip each plane with a Class III Display Device, commonly referred to as a Class III Electronic Flight Bag, manufactured by the Boeing Co. Eight new 747-400 aircraft recently ordered by UPS will be built from scratch with the system.

The Class III Display Device is essentially an information system with two independent computer hard drives coupled to a specially constructed video display. Its Class III rating means it meets the most stringent certification requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration.

In the case of the UPS Airlines, the Class III Display Device will work in sync with a safety system known as ADS-B or Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast that UPS has already installed in all of its 757 and 767 aircraft.

ADS-B operates with the Global Positioning Satellite system to automatically track all similarly equipped aircraft in the air or on the ground.

“We are excited to see UPS demonstrating the flexibility of our Class III Display Device by using proven technology for innovative and ground-breaking applications,” said Lou Mancini, vice president and general manager of Boeing Commercial Aviation Services. “UPS is a model customer for the device and its reputation as a leader in both technology and financial rigor represents a strong stamp of approval.”

“ACSS is thrilled to be part of a team tasked with moving the industry forward,” added ACSS President Kris Ganase. “We’re excited to work with Boeing to display SafeRoute information for UPS pilots and bring a higher level of safety while increasing the overall efficiency of their flight operations.”