A Look At What’s Next

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“We’re tapping the high-performance computing capability of today’s aircraft to move more planes more safely and efficiently,” said FAA Administrator Marion Blakey. “The environmental benefits are terrific too, because flying straight down the middle of the flight path means that people on the ground perceive less jet noise and experience fewer engine emissions.” More RNP approaches are slated to become available in 2006, including the Wenatchee Airport in Washington; George Bush Intercontinental in Houston; Chicago Midway; Newark, N.J., Liberty; Honolulu International; Gary, Ind.; Tampa, Fla.; Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; Guam; Tucson, Ariz.; Long Beach, Calif.; and John F. Kennedy International in New York. When performance-based navigation is fully implemented at airports across the nation, it will establish precise approach, arrival and departure procedures. It also will improve situational awareness for pilots and air traffic controllers, and provide smoother traffic flows, saving fuel and benefiting the environment, the FAA said. Want to know more about RNP? Watch the FAA’s 13-minute online video (provided you have a speedy internet connection), “Highway in the Sky.”

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