They liked more detailed information, but with the display presenting the most information, the pilots were concerned that it might be too much. . . . Meanwhile, the other aircraft slowed 50 knots more than it should have. But they reacted quickly when they had this information. She hopes the results will assist the Federal Aviation Administration in its decision on when and whether to fully implement CDTI in commercial aircraft. Pritchett believes that approval could come within the next five years.
Equipment is antiquated.
There is concern about change. But there must be change because of the equipment and the demand for air transportation. Pritchett sees the implementation of CDTI in commercial aircraft as an intermediate step in changing technology and air traffic control procedures. For now, controllers select routes often based on old airways and without considering conditions, such as winds. They will just be able to give higher-level commands.