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Gulfstream completes transatlantic flight with innovative air navigation system

Gulfstream Aerospace, owned by General Dynamics (NYSE:GD), recently completed a transatlantic flight using a Future Air Navigation System (FANS), which is composed of a Controller-Pilot Data Link Communication (CPDLC) and Automatic Dependent Surveillance (ADS).

The CPDLC/ADC data link gives the flight crew a direct communication system to remote-area Air Traffic Controllers. It improves flight safety by automatically prompting the pilot if the aircraft deviates from ideal altitudes and routes. In addition to that, this system also gives meteorological data for the aircraft sensors.

Manning the controls of the Gulfstream G450 test aircraft were captains Sean Sheldon and Ron Newton. The flight departed from Savannah to the London-Luton Airport, and back. The test craft used CPDLC/ADS for oceanic communication and position-reporting.

The crew used the new system to exchange information with ground-based air traffic computers. This eliminates the need for flight crews to use radio operators to request clearances and provide position reports.

Gulfstream Aerospace plans to adopt the CPDLC/ADS to large cabin aircrafts by the third quarter of 2009.