WASHINGTON - Austin, Indianapolis, Nashville, and Dallas Love Field are the first in line for a major upgrade in air traffic control technology. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is implementing a new system called Surface Awareness Initiative (SAI) at these airports by July 2024, with plans to expand to many more by the end of 2025.

This initiative aims to make runways safer by giving air traffic controllers a clearer picture of what's happening on the ground. Currently, some airports lack the necessary surveillance tools, which can be risky, especially in bad weather.

SAI leverages existing Automatic Dependent Surveillance - Broadcast (ADS-B) technology. Aircraft and any vehicles equipped with ADS-B will show up as icons on a digital map displayed in the air traffic control tower. This map will depict runways, taxiways, and other important areas.

Part of a Bigger Effort: SAI is just one piece of the FAA's three-pronged approach to surface safety. Other initiatives include Approach Runway Verification (ARV) and Runway Incursion Device (RID).

The FAA is taking a multi-faceted approach to safety, including increased air traffic controller hiring, improved training programs, upgraded tower simulators, and investments in runway lighting and surface improvements.

Source: Federal Aviation Administration
Associated URL: https://www.faa.gov/newsroom/faa-install-new-runway-safety-technology

TARBES, France - Daher has announced they will begin designing a hybrid-electric version of their TBM 900 series aircraft. This project leverages learnings from the EcoPulse demonstrator, a collaboration with Safran and Airbus. The goal is to have the new TBM model in service by 2027.

While aiming for the 2027 target, Daher acknowledges the challenges of certifying a hybrid-electric aircraft. New aspects like high-voltage electrical systems require uncharted certification territory. Despite this, Daher plans to move forward with outlining aircraft specifications later in 2024.

The EcoPulse demonstrator has completed 14 electric flights using its electric power units, turbogenerator, and electric thrusters. Testing has also included engine and battery performance evaluation flights. Additionally, data is being collected to compare the EcoPulse's performance with Airbus computer models.

The EcoPulse program continues with noise testing and further envelope expansion flights. Once these Phase 3 goals are achieved, Phase 4 will focus specifically on the hybrid-electric system's performance.

Source: AIN
Associated URL: https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2024-04-09/daher-track-hybrid-electric-airplane-2027