According to the Detroit Free Press, GPS tracking technology for tracking airplanes, could soon be available if government funding and the approval of the FAA come through.
With a concept easily comparable to fleet tracking, GPS tracking systems for aircraft would allow pilots to fly directly to their destinations rather than using the current practice of indirect routes which are dependent upon the ability to communicate with ground stations.
GPS tracking systems will also allow pilots to see their own locations as well as the locations of other planes in the area. Precision GPS technology will allow planes to fly closer together. In addition, it is anticipated that GPS tracking installed on aircrafts will result in fuel conservation due to the fact that pilots will have the technology necessary to glide directly on to the runway while idling, rather than using the current procedure of stair step descents which consume considerable amounts of fuel.
GPS tracking for aircraft may be delayed due to lack of funding and the FAA approval process. Some fear that a prolonged delay would negatively affect the United States’ lead role in high tech aviation development around the world.
Source: http://www.freep.com/article/20110705/NEWS07/107050337/GPS-system-aims-make-flying-easier
