Let’s see what’s been going in in aviation, but first….
AI – it appears that communication between pilots and ATC is now coming under scrutiny. For a while, flight simulator users have been able to choose a different voice to their own, enhancing the gaming experience still further. Not surprisingly, the most popular one is Top Gun’s Maverick. Now, Honeywell are investigating how its Real-time Anonymization & Speech Protection (RASP) technology can be used to assist real time pilots and air traffic controllers. Problems exist with widely differing accents. The example quoted was US pilots and French ATC. Anyone who listens to transmissions will immediately notice that the flight crew can talk very quickly, whilst the controller has a heavily accented voice. The programme would provide almost instantaneous voice modification. As expected in aviation, the programme starts with English then progresses to Spanish and other European languages. This could result in fewer pilot/controller read backs and miscommunications, therefore safer flights. It will also have the essential built-in protections to guard against hackers.
Will be interesting to follow progress and success of this US Government funded initiative. They are also looking at how it can be utilised to monitor flight crew mental and physical health.
In other news…
IAG – continuing with its fleet renewal, orders have been placed for –
Iberia – 6 A350-900
BA – 6 A350-1000
BA – 6 B777-9
In February 2019 18 B777-9 aircraft were ordered, including 24 options. At the time, the group detailed that new Boeing aircraft would be used to replace aging B747-400 and B777-200 aircraft between 2022 and 2025. The manufacturer has yet to certify the B777-9, with its executives promising certification in 2025 or early 2026 and the first delivery in 2026. In addition, the group ordered 53 new aircraft for its medium-term long-haul fleet needs. This includes 21 A330-900 and 32 B787-10, which would be delivered between 2028 and 2033, also securing 13 A330-900 and 10 B787 options with the latest order.
RAF – once again, a magnificent flypast to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day. It was great to see the BBMF aircraft in the sky again. The Lancaster and Hurricane operated an extensive flypast programme. An overnight ground stop at SEN drew many spotters both at the airport and on SDTV Live (YouTube channel). On Saturday, both aircraft returned to their base at RAF Coningsby. This time, Nikos from Ted Coningsby (YouTube) provided excellent coverage and knowledge of these iconic aircraft.
KLM – It’s now been confirmed that King Wilhelm-Alexander is currently undergoing his type rating for the A321. There was some speculation that he had hung up his headset…
Finally….
Skycards – does anyone have any thoughts on the spotting game linked to FR24? I’ve heard differing reports, from good to a waste of time. Sadly, FR24 has been a problem recently with accuracy and timing.
Wherever you are in the world, don’t forget to share your spotting activities with us. With lovely weather here in the UK, there’s been plenty of opportunities to record over the top flights too. It’s also the start of airshow season…
Information courtesy of Aviation International News, Simple Flying
Images courtesy of SDTV Live, FR24
©TPSC, LadyJet2 and photo/diagram suppliers