Rockwell Collins : and Airbus introduce first ‘self-reporting’ flight tracking solution

• Automatically generates alerts when an abnormal situation occurs on an aircraft
• Immediately increases frequency of position reporting data to one minute intervals
• Will be introduced on A350 XWB and A380 aircraft and as an option for A320 and A330/A340 families

PARIS (June 19, 2017) - In a continued effort to improve the ability to track aircraft globally, Rockwell Collins has teamed with Airbus to introduce a new Onboard Aircraft Tracking solution. The solution monitors aircraft information to detect and alert when abnormal flight situations occur and will come standard on the A350 WXB and A380 and as an option for A320, A330 and A340 aircraft.

The Onboard Aircraft Tracking solution monitors a specific set of aircraft parameters that could indicate a problem with a flight, including such issues as low altitude, low speed, excessive pitch, engine failure and others. If triggered, the aircraft automatically begins to emit aircraft position information at an increased rate. The Onboard Aircraft Tracking function is implemented as an update to the Airline Operational Control (AOC) avionics software and is available for both forward fit and retrofit.

'This solution enables an aircraft to detect specific abnormal conditions and self-report to the airline the moment something occurs,' said David Nieuwsma, senior vice president, Information Management Services for Rockwell Collins. 'When every second counts, the ability to automatically and instantaneously identify a possible issue can provide a significant advantage for airline operators interested in tracking their aircraft, particularly when flying over polar or oceanic regions.'

The Onboard Aircraft Tracking solution is designed to meet IATA's Aircraft Tracking Task Force (ATTF) and concept of operations of ICAO's Global Aeronautical Distress and Safety System (GADSS) standards for aircraft tracking which call for aircraft identification at least every 15 minutes during 'normal operations' and at least every one minute during 'abnormal operations.' Once the Onboard Aircraft Tracking solution sends an alert to the ground, the Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System (ACARS) position reporting frequency increases to meet the one minute interval recommendation.
About Rockwell Collins
Rockwell Collins (NYSE: COL) is a leader in aviation and high-integrity solutions for commercial and military customers around the world. Every day we help pilots safely and reliably navigate to the far corners of the earth; keep warfighters aware and informed in battle; deliver millions of messages for airlines and airports; and help passengers stay connected and comfortable throughout their journey. As experts in flight deck avionics, cabin electronics, cabin interiors, information management, mission communications, and simulation and training, we offer a comprehensive portfolio of products and services that can transform our customers' futures. To find out more, please visit www.rockwellcollins.com.