Industry watchdogs say that better training, not new technology, is needed to stop pilots flying into mountains. Air traffic controllers in Britain say they are struggling to manage crowded skies using a system that is already long overdue for retirement. A data network to link pilots, air traffic control systems and airlines around the world could make air traffic control more efficient. Spinning streams of air generated by large aircraft can affect planes following them. One day large aircraft could check their own wings for cracks and carry out repairs.
Computers can control almost every phase of flight in the newest generation of jet aircraft.
The Australian Foundation for Science and the Science and Technology Awareness Program of the Commonwealth Department of Industry, Science and Resources are also supporters of Nova . This topic is sponsored by Airservices Australia and the Commonwealth Department of Industry, Science and Resources .