Aircraft IT Operations V2.1

V2.1 • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013

Avoid Digital Anarchy

Tablet EFBs must be managed FUEL MANAGEMENT; IT’S AN INFORMATION THING

And it needs powerful IT

KEEPING LEGACY UP-TO-DATE

Managing technology in mixed fleets

‘NEED TO KNOW’

ATQP – training for the real world

INNOVATION DELAYED

Do Business Cases kill ideas?

White Papers: Arconics, SITA Case Studies: Etihad Airways, Evoke Systems Vendor Flight Log: Evoke Systems PLUS: The convenience of Webinars, News, Upload Tender, Operations Software Directory…

TopWings. Scalable networked solutions to help make the right decisions.

Maximum IT security?

Turnkey EFB solution?

An ultra-secure Electronic Flight Bag solution based on Thales’ expertise in protected networks

Customised full integration of hardware, software, communication and third party applications

Improved flight safety?

Real-time information reducing errors and enhancing crew awareness

Greener airlines?

© Jeppesen Sanderson, Inc

Optimised operations, paperless cockpit and reduced CO2 emissions

Running an airline successfully demands a very high level of operational efficiency. TopWings® by Thales, is a brand new Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) solution which integrates hardware and software seamlessly, streamlines operational efficiency and significantly reduces operational costs. It is a global solution that delivers the right information to the right people at the right time, transforming the aircraft into a communication node of the airline’s information system. Thales takes on the overall responsibility of implementing the EFB programme too – making it hassle-free for airlines and allowing a fast return on their investment. Best in class, TopWings is a customisable, modular solution that helps key decision makers master complexity and make timely decisions for better outcomes.

To learn more about our Electronic Flight Bag solution, scan the QR code or email topwings@thalesgroup.com or visit thalesgroup.com

Operational cost savings?

Significant savings on time, fuel and maintenance

04 Latest News and Technology updates

If change is a constant state then keeping up to date must be the priority for professionals in operations IT. Experts use www.aircraftit.com/operations and Aircraft IT Operations e-journal to keep up to date with news.

Editor’s comment

12 WHITE PAPER: Managing a digital environment

Aircraft IT Operations: using data to understand the past, organise a more effective present and build plans on solid grounds.

The issue of the day for the general population and for professionals involved with it is data. People have always known that data could help better understand what makes the world go around but today we are seeing ‘big data’ used to track likes and dislikes, plot the courses of epidemics and even predict where crimes will be committed and what those crimes will be. Mathematics, the family of data, is seen not as the tortured calculations of school homework hours but as a golden key to unlock the most complex patterns in life and work… a way of reading the world.

Aircraft IT is always about the application of data to get work completed to a higher standard, at faster speed, at less cost and with greater safety. This issue of Aircraft IT focuses especially on key areas where data can help get the job done. It also focuses on the way in which that data is marshalled and applied.

And, if you think about it, aviation is one area where big data can only assist. Consider the number of parts in an aircraft, the number of permutations of route, conditions, load, fuel, regulations, training requirements, market demands, performance profiles, people and so much more. To not have access to the kind of data management systems available now would make modern air travel on the scale, with the safety and reliability, and at the cost enjoyed today, virtually impossible.

Reading your Aircraft IT Operations, you’ll see how a major airline implemented a new fuel and emissions management program, and you’ll find how electronic management of training data opens the world of Alternative Training Qualification Programmes (ATQP) to airlines, with the safety, quality and cost enhancements that follow. Further on, you’ll read about the data challenges in running a mixed fleet of new and earlier technology generation aircraft as well as how airlines are coming to terms with and learning to harness the power that iPads put into their pilots’ hands.

Paul Saunders will offer his personal insight into the world according to IT. And, of course, there’s information about the Aircraft IT live demonstration webinars; allowing readers to research the software package most appropriate for their needs and access past webinars while, of course, future webinars are open for every reader who registers.

19 COLUMN: The World according to IT & Me!

Are business cases stifling innovation? Paul Saunders Pilots and engineers enjoy the authority to take expensive decisions based on the best information available, yet IT and technology have to go through hoops before a decision can be made and then it’s often too late?

20 WHITE PAPER: THE ‘DIGITAL AIRCRAFT’ – HERALDING A NEW GENERATION OF AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS

Mario Sabourin, Sr. Product Manager, EFB at SITA As new aircraft are increasingly equipped with the latest technology from the outset, airlines have to manage not only the opportunities offered by new systems but also operating aircraft from different technology generations in the same fleet.

24 Upcoming webinars: Your chance to attend convenient and free live Operations software demonstration webinars.

Previews of live software demonstration Webinars for SITA EFB solution on 14th February and Arconics EFB/iPad Documentation Management on 28th February.

26 CASE STUDY: Alternative Training Qualification Programme (ATQP)

Captain Mark Linney, co-founder and director of Evoke Systems Limited Rather than train pilots in what any pilot needs to know, ATQP focuses on what the pilot in training needs to know for the job they do: better for safety and costs.

32 VENDOR FLIGHT LOG: Mark Linney lets us in on the secret of what drives Evoke Systems CLICK HERE: Send your feedback and suggestions to AircraftIT OPS

COVER IMAGE: ©AIRBUS SAS 2012, photo by exm Company P. Masclet

Mauricio J Arias, and Hassan Abouzeid of Etihad Airways Managing fuel use and emissions is vital to any airline operations but to do it effectively requires information and to get that requires a powerful IT solution.

View Video Recordings of our Past Live Operations Software Demonstration Webinars including: OSyS, Smart4Aviation, FuelPlus and IFRSKEYES

Ed Haskey Editor

The views and opinions expressed in this publication are the views of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of their companies or of the publisher. The publisher does not guarantee the source, originality, accuracy, completeness or reliability of any statement, information, data, finding, interpretation, advice, opinion, or view presented.

16 CASE STUDY: Information saves fuel and reduces emissions

30 Past webinars: knowledge transfer and access for industry experts

Aircraft IT Operations: data and information for aviation professionals.

AircraftIT OPS is published bi-monthly and is an affiliate of Aircraft Commerce and part of the AviationNextGen Ltd group. The entire contents within this publication © Copyright 2012 AviationNextGen Ltd an independent publication and not affiliated with any of the IT vendors or suppliers. Content may not be reproduced without the strict written agreement of the publisher.

Niall O’Sullivan, CEO at Arconics The tablet EFB revolution is fast building an irresistible force but, in order to properly harness its potential and avoid the risks of pilots taking their own initiatives, airlines will have to organise the management and support of devices within their systems

CLICK HERE: Subscribe for free

AircraftIT Operations

Publisher/Editor:

E-mail:

Telephone:

Website: Copy Editor/Contributor: Magazine Production:

E-mail:

Ed Haskey ed.haskey@aircraft-commerce.com +44 1403 230 700 or +44 1273 700 555 www.aircraftIT.com John Hancock Dean Cook deancook@magazineproduction.com

In the latest of our Q&A pieces, Captain Mark Linney, Founding Director at Evoke Systems allows Aircraft IT readers to pick up his ‘Vendor Flight Log’.

34 Upload Tender

Whatever software solution you are looking for, this Tender upload feature will allow you to reach out to all the major Vendors at once.

35 Your next career step

Find out about current and future vacancies for people like you in the sector where your experience and skills are valued.

36 Operations Software directory

A detailed look at the world’s leading Operations IT systems.

4 | NEWS | AIRCRAFT IT MRO | FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013

Five new software solutions providers join Aircraft IT Operations vendor group AircraftIT is very pleased to announce the inclusion of five new solution providers to the publication’s growing panel of vendors. aircore_systems GmbH is a part of the PAS-IT-Group founded in 1992 and located at Marsberg, Germany, close to Paderborn airport (PAD / EDLP). The major difference from other companies , they say, is “our combination of IT knowledge on the one hand and airline knowledge on the other hand as several staff members hold a valid captains rating on transport category aircraft in addition to their academic degrees.”

The main software application from aircore_systems, which has been in use for many years at several airlines, is the EFB solution: AS – FlightBag II. This product contains the following core modules: 1. Library: airline specific document management between ground and cockpit.

2. CrewBriefing: the operational flight plan and additional information deemed necessary.

3. JourneyLog: the flight data handling to and from the cockpit.

4. TechLog: electronic workorder with eSignature and connectivity to several maintenance applications.

5. Least Cost Routing: minimization of data transfer costs between back office and cockpit.

DAC International, Inc. based in Austin, Texas, specializes in Avionics systems for a wide range of aircraft including major and regional airliners. They offer cockpit system upgrades to meet new operational requirements as well as replacement for older systems. In-house capabilities include a range of analog-digital (A/D), digital-analog (D/A), digital-digital (D/D) converters, Electronic Flight Bags (EFB) and Tablet to Aircraft Interface Units.

(TAIU). DAC International encourages customers and potential customers to, “Talk to us about anything from FMS, Cockpit Displays, CVR/FDR, Cabin Passenger Briefing systems, ARINC 615 data loaders and more. Certification and integration packages can be included.”

Boeing offers the industry’s broadest range of aviation services to provide our customers with the ultimate competitive advantage. They call this the Boeing Edge. In the information services field, Boeing is keenly focused on addressing customers’ continuous need for integration and optimization of information. Using data, software,

analytics and IT infrastructure, they connect airplanes, operators and data, striving to enable smart and informed decision-making to take operational efficiency of their aircraft fleet and operations to the next level.

With the electronic publishing solution from EasyBrowse users create electronic publications ready to use on EFBs, in the Intranet or on iPads.

Features include:• Powerful search options; • Virtual publications based on aircraft type / registration; • Automatic database updates; • Incremental updates; • Bookmarks, notes; • Zero footprint installation; • Distribution management and monitoring; • Support any SGML/XML structure plus a wide varity of their formats (PDF, graphics and video).

Ovidus TCToolbox Airline Edition is a comprehensive package consiting of tools that support the complete workflow of the manual creation and distribution process: TCToolbox being an approved and robust Content Management System (CMS) offering...

• SGML-/XML-based CMS; • Versioning, access control; • Rights management; • Supports any graphics format; • Importing of Excel tables; • Re-use of information modules and graphics; • Effectivity management; • Automatic generation of change marks.

The powerful typesetting system TopLeaf from Turnkey supports the automatic generation of PDF files and revision packages.

Welcoming the new vendors to the panel, Aircraft IT editor and publisher, Ed Haskey said, “In one of the most sophisticated IT markets, aviation IT, expertise and accumulated relevant experience will always be highly valued attributes. Much of the value and cutting edge innovation as well as the ability to complete ordinary tasks in an extraordinary manner can be found among the vendors who serve this sector. So we value our vendor links which makes us particularly pleased to welcome these five excellent solutions providers. aircore_systems GmbH, DAC International, Inc., Boeing, EasyBrowse and Ovidus will add significant strength to our already valuable vendor panel of high quality, world class solutions providers.”

Icelandair and Air Malta sign contracts for Aventus NowCast™

In early November 2012, less than a month after announcing a major contract, AVTECH Sweden AB (publ) signed contracts with both Icelandair and Air Malta for the Aventus NowCast product.

Welcoming the news, David Alvord, AVTECH Sweden CEO said, “The significance of these… goes beyond the individual contracts as it demonstrates that AVTECH is now starting to build a customer base with the pace of signing customers increasing from the major carrier in the Middle East that was signed in June and the one in Asia-Pacific in October. The goal has been six signed contracts by the end of the year, and with today’s announcement we are on target to meet our goal.”

AVTECH has also closed yet another two contracts for its wind optimization product, Aventus NowCast.

The company’s latest Aventus customers have been able to determine immediate value and subsequent gains of implementing the product into the daily operations of their fleets. The most significant gains derived from the product are direct fuel savings as well as enabling aircraft to fly Time-based Operations (TBO), which enables a smooth, punctual and cost-efficient operational process.

Both carriers are pleased to be able to achieve additional fuel savings with their Continuous Descent Approaches (CDAs), also known as Green Approaches, by the selection of the optimized winds via Aventus NowCast. Moreover, the contracts are for Boeing 757 and Airbus A-320 fleets which shows that Aventus NowCast is compatible with a wide range of aircraft currently in use.

transavia.com signs up to ETS Aviation’s FuelSaver program

transavia.com, a Dutch airline and a member of the Air France – KLM group, has selected Aviation FuelSaver™ to power its fuel-efficiency program.

When the contract announcement was made in early January 2013, Peter van Blokland, Director Flight Technical, transavia.com said: “The ETS Aviation team provides highly specialized fuel efficiency expertise… The Fuel Saving Assessment, conducted by their Fuel Efficiency experts, provided us with a thorough evaluation of our current fuel performance plus an expert and independent view of further potential efficiencies, specific to our operation. The detailed assessment study helped us measure and enhance our fuel efficiency program. It provided a clear view on how we are able to improve our flight

operations using our operational data powered through the ETS Aviation software.

“Aviation FuelSaver™ will provide the entire transavia.com operation with the ability to measure our success, enhance our processes and evaluate new established initiatives on a regular basis.”

Developed by aviation software and consultancy specialists ETS Aviation Ltd, Aviation FuelSaver™ is a fuel-performance tracking system. Linked with ETS Aviation’s own fuel conservation consultancy, it delivers significant cost savings by enabling operators to accurately monitor their fuel-saving initiatives and predict potential savings.

Ian Britchford, Director of Fuel Saving at ETS Aviation, said: “The Fuel Saving Assessment is the first stage of our program and delivers not just an independent benchmark of the airline’s current fuel efficiency, but locates potential savings across the spectrum of operations. It also locates the data sources needed to support the software. We do all the hard work and leave the airline in a position to fully evaluate and measure its operational fuel performance accurately and easily.”

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013| AIRCRAFT IT OPERATIONS | NEWS | 5

Aer Lingus deploys electronic flight bag software from Flightman

In late November 2012, Flightman announce the successful installation of their Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) software on the Aer Lingus’ fleet of Airbus aircraft.

Flightman worked with Aer Lingus in the development of the business case demonstrating a compelling return on investment for the deployment of their EFB solution. Aer Lingus selected the Flightman EFB software product to connect their fleet of Airbus aircraft to their existing ground based systems.

The solution includes eJourney Log, eReporting and Content Management integrated with Aer Lingus’ onboard Performance, and Weight and Balance calculations module and the Arconics document management solution. It enables the exchange of data between the cockpit and Aer Lingus’ systems, via secure cellular communications technologies, and is a significant step towards a paperless cockpit. The solution together with the ground based Flightman EFB management server will also allow Aer Lingus’ operations personnel to access flight data in a timely manner, extract business intelligence and remotely manage the distribution of content to and from the aircraft.

At the commencement of the EFB software implementation, Capt. Eamon Kierans, Manager Flight Operations Compliance, Aer Lingus, commented; “We have been working towards a paper free cockpit and to that end are very pleased with the efficiencies and benefits associated with EFB software. We look forward to working with Flightman into the future.”

Flightman, provider of EFB software solutions, has continued to expand its operations in the international aviation industry with a customer portfolio of charter, commercial and cargo airlines.

Click here for full SOFTWARE details and for a demo

– Delivering powerful, real time operational data.

FuelPLus starts the year with a solution for smaller airlines and a new customer FuelPlus launches FuelPlus/One fuel management solution for smaller airlines

As 2013 opened, FuelPlus launched FuelPlus/One, the hosted and cost efficient solution for the world’s smaller airlines. With FuelPlus/One smaller airlines operating up to 40 aircraft can benefit from the proven functionality of FuelPlus/EFM in use at airlines including Lufthansa, KLM, and Etihad.

Using a centralized fuel management system allows the operator to identify savings, reduce costs and increase efficiency. This in turn will help the airline grow, be more profitable, more competitive and more sustainable.

Japan Airlines select FuelPlus/EFM as future fuel management system

Japan Airlines selected FuelPlus/EFM in late February 2013 as the future fuel management system for Japan Airlines and its affiliated operators. The carrier will use FuelPlus/EFM for planning fuel forecasts and budgets, managing contract and fuel inventories, verifying invoices, reporting aviation fuel tax, and reselling fuel to affiliates.

For more information

Visit: www.aviit.com, call: +44 (0)1383 620922 or email: info@aviit.com AVIIT HP 1212 Archimedes.indd 1

13/02/2013 15:17

6 | NEWS | AIRCRAFT IT MRO | FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013

Lufthansa Consulting signs MoU with Governor of Nineveh Province in Iraq for modernization of Mosul Airport The Iraqi Government and Lufthansa Consulting continue their successful collaboration to establish international standards for the country’s future aviation development: During the recent Iraqi-German Business Forum in Berlin, the Governor of the Nineveh Governorate, H.E. Athil Abdulazeez Al Najafi, and Lufthansa Consulting signed a Memorandum of Understanding regarding the development of Mosul International Airport in the provincial capital in North-Western Iraq.

Since August 2011 the German management consulting company has provided consultancy in previous projects by evaluating and optimizing the ground handling requirements and services at Iraq’s major airports Baghdad, Basra and Mosul. The latest agreement concerning Mosul International Airport covers the definition of the airport strategy and airport marketing, the search for new airlines and the expansion of aviationrelated business such as catering, aircraft maintenance as well as the training of qualified staff. Furthermore, Lufthansa Consulting will prepare the privatization of ground services at the Iraqi airports. The aviation experts have been commissioned exclusively by the Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Iraq to manage the tender process in a concession procedure where the government requires a strategic partner with substantial ground handling experience.

The overall project aim is to raise Iraq’s air traffic back to an international level and to attract new clients to the country’s airports in the future.

navAero receives Airbus A300 and A310 EASA STC for t•Bag™C22 Electronic Flight Bag System navAero announced in late November 2012 that the t•Bag™C22 Electronic Flight Bag system has been awarded an EASA Supplementary Type Certificate (STC) 10040961 for Airbus A300 and A310 series aircraft.

The navAero t•BagC22 Class 2 EFB brings state-of-the-art technology to 1970’s era aircraft and provides a robust and aircraft-integrated platform for the hosting and display of enhanced situational awareness applications.

Deployed architecture consists of dual cross-connected t•Bag C22 EFB systems. The certification includes all the navAero t•Pad™ series 10.4” displays – giving operators numerous options to choose from to meet their specific requirements. The t•Bag C22 system also includes built-in wireless communication capabilities (both 3G and 802.11b/g) for on-ground data connectivity.

ARINC 429 and 717 data will be provided to the dual t•Bag C22 EFBs through the deployment of the navAero Aircraft Interface Device (AID) which is an integrated

Click here for full SOFTWARE details and for a demo

Navtech realizes that each airline’s business case for EFB will require a unique combination of hardware, software, applications, back-office tools, and business process adjustment. With this in mind, Navtech partners with each customer and their EFB suppliers of choice to provide the best ROI possible.

Discover more about Navtech TODC and Navtech Charts for EFB at www.navtech.aero.

NAVTECH Inspiring Aviation

part of the overall navAero system architecture. This STC technology solution enables operators to utilize data from on-board systems to automatically populate EFBhosted third party software applications as well as initiate on-ground message and data transfers as required for paperless operation. navAero Executive VP, Simone Giordano, states “The ability to revitalize aging aircraft through the installation of state-ofthe-art EFB technology is what navAero is all about. This STC shows once again that our t•Bag™C22 Electronic Flight Bag system meets all the European regulatory requirements to be a highly integrated part of a modern airline and provide end-to-end connectivity.”

The certification and engineering activities were performed in cooperation with AERO Vodochody, established certification partner of navAero also for the A330 and A340 EASA STC. Deployments are currently in progress and installation kits are available for immediate delivery.

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013| AIRCRAFT IT OPERATIONS | NEWS | 7

Sheorey Digital Systems Ltd. (SDS) continues to develop and improve its ARMS® V2 solution Sheorey Digital Systems Ltd. (SDS) launches ARMS® on the Tab

Sheorey Digital Systems‘(SDS) ubiquitous ARMS® V2 (Aviation Resource Management System), which addresses critical and cost sensitive issues in Commercial Airlines and Air Transport operations, is now even more accessible with the launch, in med-December 2012, of ARMS® on the Tab. Reflecting the growing trend towards Tablet devices across airline operations and engineering, ARMS® on the Tab will deliver the attributes and values of ARMS® V2 via any userdefined platform.

Already available on iPAD2, Android Tablets and ToughPads, ARMS® on the Tab will soon also be available on Windows 8 Tablets with online access to ARMS® V2 suite (Thru Go-Global) plus ARMS® on the TAB (Apps) in offline mode.

ARMS® V2 Suite modules available include: • Electronic Flight Bag (EFB): with CFP, Trip Kit, Met & Notam Briefing and Charts; • Electronic Tech Log (ETL), Cabin Log and other Post-flight reports; • FORMS: Safety Reports, Training Completion, Quality Audit, etc.; • EDOCs/Tech Pubs Library; • APPS: Load & Trim, RTOW, etc.

The whole package is supported by a comprehensive Content Management and Revision Control server environment at the backend. Summarising the launch Vivek Sheorey, CEO and Managing Director at SDS explained; “ARMS® on the Tab is beyond EFB or ETL. It makes the power of ARMS® V2 Suite available where users need it, providing anytime-anyplace accessibility as a fully mobile application”.

Sheorey Digital Systems Ltd (SDS) unveils the newest addition to its ARMS®V2 integrated suite — Safety & Quality Management Sub-system (SQMS)

Sheorey Digital Systems Ltd (SDS) proudly unveiled in late January 2013 the newest addition to its ARMS® V2 integrated suite, Safety & Quality Management Sub-system (SQMS), designed and developed as the ideal tool to implement and monitor SMS (Safety Management System) dispensations in Aviation Operators.

Promulgated by ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization), SMS signifies a new, proactive and predictive management approach to safety in aviation. It is pertinent to mention here that regulations rendering SMS a mandatory requirement for airlines’ Operations divisions, are just around the corner.

SQMS can either run as an intrinsic sub-system of ARMS® and draw the required inputs from the common data base at the heart of ARMS® or alternatively, interface with an existing third-party data base to achieve the same objectives of safety; for smaller operators, the inputs can even be manual. ARMS® V2 SQMS modules include: • Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (HIRA); • Occurrence Reporting and Management (OCRM); • Audit Management (AUDM); • Meetings Manager (METM); • Investigation Management (INVM); • Flight Operations Quality Assurance (FOQA); • Maintenance & Engineering

Click here for full SOFTWARE details and for a demo

Quality Assurance (MEQA); and • Integrated Data and Document Management System (DDMS); • eSQMS – a dedicated Web Portal extension accessible through a browser.

FUEL Reduce your fuel costs

Analyze fuel consumption Discover fuel savings

The fuel conservation solution from Aviaso provides a full range of data analysis, reporting, and monitoring tools to help airlines save fuel and reduce emissions.

It contains more than 100 ready-made reports, which allow an airline to thoroughly understand the fuel

Monitor progress of initiatives

consumption and to identify potential fuel savings.

The Aviaso software also helps to really achieve these

Commenting on the launch, Vivek Sheorey, CEO and Managing Director at SDS described the new ARMS® V2 SQMS, as “a winner”, given its USP of being able to support Safety and Quality facets of Operations with a single application. He further stated that “the Aviation Industry is replete with examples of companies decrying the opportunity costs of safety investments. Hence the oft repeated adage – If you think safety is expensive, try an accident!”

savings by rigorously monitoring the various fuel saving initiatives for each and every flight.

Aviaso

connecting aviation and software

Communicate results

CLICK HERE for more information

www.aviaso.com

Aviaso Inc. · Huobstrasse 10 · CH-8808 Pfaeffikon · Switzerland · Phone: +41 55 422 0000 · www.aviaso.com · info@aviaso.com

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FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013| AIRCRAFT IT OPERATIONS | NEWS | 9

SITA delivers services for Malta and the Kingdom of Bahrains

Click here for full SOFTWARE details and for a demo

Sita to deliver 30% savings for Air Malta – IT transformation powered by community cloud

Air Malta is outsourcing its IT operations to SITA and moving its infrastructure to SITA’s Air Transport Industry (ATI) Cloud as part of a major information technology transformation which will deliver up to 30 per cent cost savings to the airline.

The six-year, multi-million dollar contract, announced in early November 2012, includes the outsourcing of campus LAN/WiFi networking, security elements, office automation servers and the provision of new hardware including laptops and tablets supported by mobile services for improved employee productivity. SITA will transform the existing data center into a virtual environment for services to be hosted within SITA’s ATI cloud infrastructure. In total, more than 500 work stations and 20 tablet devices will be powered by the ATI cloud.

The ATI Cloud is a community resource, designed for all those involved in the global air transport industry.

It is a unique service offering all the advantages of cloud computing in a secure environment tailored to the specific demands of airlines, airports and other industry stakeholders.

Peter Davies, CEO at Air Malta, said: “SITA is providing us with a unique solution combining local and cloud-based services with the most up-todate technology. Air Malta is undergoing a major restructure and this overhaul of our IT infrastructure is designed to deliver a minimum of 30 percent cost savings and a return on our investment in just two years.”

As part of the agreement, SITA will manage 40 different suppliers for the airline covering management of its entire IT provision. In addition, Air Malta is outsourcing the complexity, and controlling the costs, of its email and collaboration tools by moving to a SITA managed solution. These cloud services will ensure the airline effortlessly keeps its applications up-to-date while lowering its license costs. In addition, it will migrate to the new service more economically than it could update its legacy system in-house.

Air Malta joins several other airlines that already use SITA’s applications managed and hosted via the ATI Cloud. Work has already begun on the migration and the project is expected to be completed early in 2013.

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Gulf Air selects SITA for optimized network connectivity

Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, signed an agreement with SITA at the end of November 2012 that will allow Gulf Air to use SITA’s network services to optimize its operations across 48 destinations where it operates.

The agreement includes the provision of all private network, internet, voice, messaging and reporting services for Gulf Air. SITA will provide a variety of connectivity methods to the airline’s offices at airports in more than 20 countries across four continents. These will range from private MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) based connections to public internet connections and will include connectivity to Gulf Air’s air transport industry partners, a unique feature of SITA’s network which is embedded throughout its servicenet architecture.

Through this optimization the airline expects cost savings of up to 22 percent in IP-related services at airports worldwide.

Samer Majali, CEO, Gulf Air, said: “Gulf Air recognizes the importance of technology as a key element of its business and has been proactively upgrading its technical capabilities to serve its customers faster, easier and more efficiently. The new technology optimization not only improves efficiencies across our business but also saves our communications costs significantly. SITA is a long-standing partner of Gulf Air and its continued focus on optimizing network communications by leveraging the latest technology has ensured that our partnership continues.”

Because of its dedication to the air transport industry, SITA can also supply cost-effective and inherently redundant connectivity at airports which is based on its private MPLS networks. Gulf Air will use these community-specific services, called SITA AirportHub, for access to its departure control systems at the 20 airports in which it operates.

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10 | NEWS | AIRCRAFT IT MRO | FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013

Navtech continues to succeed with Bingo Airways Who’s in the news: Navtech Inc. has continued its successful cooperation with customer, Bingo Airways, through a multi-year agreement signed in December 2012 for provisioning of Navtech Charts and Navtech Flight Plan. Navtech Charts will be supplied to the emerging start-up airline which operates from two bases in Poland – Warsaw Chopin Airport and Katowice – primarily to Mediterranean Sea destinations. Bingo’s fleet of A320s is configured with 180 economy seats, is powered with IAE V2500 engines, and will be using Navtech Flight Plan.

Bingo Airways first partnered with Navtech earlier in 2012 by subscribing to Navtech’s Navigation Data service. The airline, founded in November 2011 by a group of Polish aviation professionals headed by Mr. Marek Sidor, former VP of LOT Polish Airlines and former CEO of Eurolot, started flying in May 2012. “We are extremely happy with a decision to use Navtech’s flight planning system as well as their navigation charts,” said CEO, Mr. Sidor.

Navtech Charts leverages Navtech’s experience, research, and Human Factors analysis work. The charts are designed using research from Human Factor specialists and by gathering data from, and working continuously with a number of pilots with years of experience using aeronautical charts.

For more information, visit www.navtech.aero.

Click here for full SOFTWARE details and for a demo

Vendors

AVTECH Sweden AB (publ)

AVTECH develops products and services for digital Air Traffic Management (ATM). Its customers include the global aviation industry; e.g. airlines, airports, aviation authorities, technology companies and airliner manufacturers.

Boeing Services

Boeing Commercial Aviation Services (CAS) helps customers maximize the lifetime value of their fleets and operations with comprehensive global support, e-enabled systems and consulting for greater maintenance and operational efficiency.

ETS Aviation

ETS Aviation has developed fast since it launched Aviation FootprinterTM in 2009 to help cope with the demands of the EU ETS carbon emissions data management and reporting. It followed this in 2012 with the launch of Aviation FuelSaver.

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013| AIRCRAFT IT OPERATIONS | NEWS | 11

Flightman

Flightman is an EFB software provider to the aviation industry. The Flightman™ family of products comprises software technology which synchronizes an extensive data model between the aircraft and various airline ground systems.

FuelPlus

FuelPlus Software GmbH is a vendor of airline fuel management software and promotes a simple message:- ‘Use a centralized fuel management software system to increase efficiency, identify savings and reduce costs, in turn helping your operation grow, be more profitable, more competitive and more sustainable.’

Lufthansa Consulting GmbH Since 1988 Lufthansa Consulting, an independent subsidiary of the Lufthansa Aviation Group, has provided services and solutions to the air transportation industry worldwide… airlines, airports and aviation authorities as well as related industries.

navAero

navAero is an organization focused on developing and commercializing hardware technology solutions for business and commercial aviation. Clients include airlines and corporate aircraft owners.

Navtech, Inc.

Navtech, Inc. provides flight operations solutions including aeronautical and other charts, with many products that can be configured as part of an EFB solution.

Sheorey Digital Systems (SDS)

Sheorey Digital Systems Ltd. (SDS) is an ISO 9001:2008 certified, Indian InfoTech company specializing in Aviation and Information Management domains. SDS’s flagship product is ARMS® (Aviation Resource Management System).

SITA

SITA’s broad range of IT applications and services accommodate airlines’ evolving IT and communications needs - from logistics, reservations, passenger check-in and flight planning systems, to on-board telephony and multimedia facilities or secure Internet solutions including e-commerce and e-business, and more.

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Aer Lingus is the national airline of Ireland with a fleet of 44 aircraft operating from central airport locations in the UK, Europe and North America serving in excess of approximately 11 million passengers annually.

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Air Malta

Air Malta plc is the national airline of Malta, headquartered in Luqa. It operates services to 36 destinations in Europe, Middle East and North Africa.

The airline’s hub and base is at Malta International Airport.

Bingo Airways

Bingo Airways is a Polish charter airline operating from Poland to the Mediterranean Sea area with clients including major tour operators from the Polish market plus operating ad-hoc charter flights.

Gulf Air

Gulf Air is the principal flag carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain. Headquartered in Muharraq, adjacent to Bahrain International Airport, the airline operates scheduled services to 41 destinations in 30 countries across Africa, Asia and Europe.

Icelandair

Icelandair is an airline offering flights to and from Iceland, and cross-Atlantic flights, using the country’s geographical location mid-way between America and Europe, as an opportunity to build a network of international routes with Iceland as a hub.

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transavia.com is a Dutch based low-cost airline and an independent part of the Air France-KLM group operating scheduled and charter services to leisure destinations. Its main base is at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol.

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12 | WHITE PAPER: ARCONICS | AIRCRAFT IT OPERATIONS | FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013

“Today a majority of pilots use iPads in an unofficial capacity downloading manuals and documents from the company intranet and loading to their personal iPads. However, these are uncontrolled copies with no guarantee that it is the latest version being used.“

Managing a digital environment With pilots getting over 45,000 iPads, Niall O’Sullivan, CEO at Arconics explains why the iPad business case works

T

he mobile device revolution is moving at a pace and 2013 will see the phenomenon spread like wildfire throughout the aviation community. From the outset pilots the world over have embraced this new technology due to its ease of use and portability. During 2012 American Airlines were the first airline to get FAA approval for iPad use in all phases of flight. This significant event has opened the gates for other airlines to unleash the power of iPad based EFB solutions.

Pilots and their iPad devices are here to stay but many airlines are struggling

to manage and control these devices. Today a majority of pilots use iPads in an unofficial capacity downloading manuals and documents from the company intranet and loading to their personal iPads. However, these are uncontrolled copies with no guarantee that it is the latest version being used. Some airlines have taken to banning pilots from using iPads while on duty and forced them to instead use the paper based information supplied by the airline. Progressive airlines, on the other hand, are meeting the challenge head on. They have embraced the change and provided solutions where the pilot can synchronise airline documents which are securely tracked to ensure that each pilot has the latest version. And it’s not just one-way traffic, delivering data to pilots;

items such as captain’s report and the safety/incident report are submitted by the pilot via his or her iPad, making communication faster and contributing to overall airline safety.

The following table shows airlines and operators who have purchased iPads and the number they have acquired.

Airline

Number of iPad purchased

United Airlines American Airlines Air France Alaska Airlines EVA US Air Force

11,000 10,000 4,100 1,400 1,000 18,000

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013| AIRCRAFT IT OPERATIONS | WHITE PAPER: ARCONICS | 13

The following are examples of airlines that have embraced iPad technology

United Airlines (video link)

Alaska Airlines (video link)

Eliminating paper translates into serious savings, says Captain Joe Burns, Managing Director of Technology and Flight Test and another 20-year United veteran.

“With iPad we’re able to save 16 million sheets of paper a year. Just removing the weight of that paper works out to 326,000 gallons of fuel saved per year.”

That’s near USD 1 Million per year.

Alaska Airlines was the first commercial airline to switch from paper to iPad. Alaska made the transition to company-issued iPads for all 1,400-plus of its pilots. Having all the information in the iPad makes it more efficient and safer because everything is in one place.

EVA Airways

American Airlines

American Airlines got approval to use iPad in all phases of flight. The main benefit derived from using Apple’s tablets was to replaces 45 pounds worth of paper for each pilot on a plane. They calculate savings of fuel usage amounting to 500,000 gallons each year.

Click here for more information.

US Air Force

Instead of spending extra time gathering information before their flights, pilots can proceed directly to work, streamlining their workdays and reducing costs for the airline. “Now pilots can fire up their iPads from home and see all the information the company provides,” says Liang.

EFB Business Case

Until now building EFB business cases has been difficult to justify from a financial point of view. The solutions were very expensive but now the available solutions are maturing with many successful projects culminating in airlines rapidly removing paper based processes and replacing them with more efficient digital based ones. The new solutions are now more affordable with high quality off-the-shelf (OTS) hardware, apps

US Air Force placed a $9 million order for 18,000 iPads. Captain Kathleen Ferrero, a military spokesperson said that the new digital flight bags would “help crews operate more effectively and safely, and support the Pentagon’s efficiency goals.”

Click here for more information.

and cloud based software solutions making solution deployment faster. An iPad based EFB business case today needs only to justify saving above $10-$15 per pilot per month. The project risk has reduced dramatically and Cloud based services do not require the capital intensive purchase upfront. These systems are typically charged on a monthly basis and can be discontinued if the value is not being delivered, so project risk is reduced.

Click here for full SOFTWARE details and for a demo

14 | WHITE PAPER: ARCONICS | AIRCRAFT IT OPERATIONS | FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013

The reason the business case works are: • Relatively cheap devices compared to custom EFB hardware; • Low cost low risk solution compared to legacy EFB solutions; • Wide range of quality aviation apps available for download; • Quick to get up and going and a solution that evolves over time; • Cloud based iPad management/ synchronisations solutions are now turnkey; • Solution reduces workload for internal IT department; • iPads are now ubiquitous in the pilot community; • The iPad is light, portable and easy to use.

Savings are typically found in: • Reduced document distribution cost; • More efficient reporting and archiving; • Improved crew communication; • Increased safety standards; • Reduced duty time; • Removal of out-station briefing rooms; • Fuel savings due to weight reduction; • Simple manual revision process - reduces time to revise manuals.

“…solutions were very expensive but now the available solutions are maturing with many successful projects culminating in airlines rapidly removing paper based processes and replacing them with more efficient digital based ones. The new solutions are now more affordable…”

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013| AIRCRAFT IT OPERATIONS | WHITE PAPER: ARCONICS | 15

Flight Operation going digital

Today, many Flight Operations departments primarily run on paper-based processes, typically consisting of Flight packs, charts, crew forms, notices and manuals. It is essential that every pilot has access to a large set of manuals and documents both on and off the aircraft. Whether the pilot is referencing a manual to check if the aircraft can be dispatched with a current defect or checking the company procedures for specific flying conditions, access to this information is critical and therefore it must be up to date and accurate. Aircraft manufacturers such as Airbus and Boeing have recently switched to XML format documents and will soon stop supplying paper. This combined with the proliferation of iPad devices has spurred Flight Operations managers to move toward fully digital libraries on the flight deck. Many airlines struggle with this transition as the processes are significantly different to the traditional paper world.

Pilots I meet do not want to be confined to receiving information updates at a single briefing terminal or an EFB installed on the aircraft. They want access to critical flight information well in advance of the flight and now they have the devices they need to receive this data – smart phones and tablets.

The following is the ideal scenario for a pilot’s daily information workflow: • First thing in the morning is to check his or her sectors for the day which information contains a brief overview of the briefing pack and weather… typically done on a mobile phone.

• Then, compulsory notices can be read and confirmed.

• On the bus to the Airport the detailed flight briefing pack can be read on the iPad in detail and any change will be clearly visible.

• When arriving at the briefing station the pre-flight planning is completed quickly and efficiently.

• On the way to the aircraft the information can be reviewed and any last minute changes can be clearly communicated from flight operations.

• When on the aircraft the same information is available on the installed EFB. • During flight, pilots can access the information during all phases of flight with fast reliable search functionality allowing access to the information they require.

• Also during the flight, the pilot will enter various items of information on digital forms which is then synchronised back to the central ground system for processing and archiving.

• These forms can be saved for completion later; for example, an incident report could be part completed on the installed EFB and later finalised when the pilot is at the hotel where s/he completes and submits to the Airlines.

This new information workflow makes for a safer environment and allows the pilot to make well considered decisions without any time pressures.

Pilots can only make decisions based on the quality of the information they have received. On a daily basis we get asked similar questions by airline flight operation managers. These are the typical challenges: • How do we deliver these documents in different formats to the pilot?

• How do I manage Airbus and Boeing XML manuals?

• I have a mixed fleet but pilots want one consistent user experience.

• Is there a single EFB document viewer that will display Airbus, Boeing and other manufacturer manuals?

• How do I synchronise and track data to each device. Is it reliable for daily operation?

• How can we ensure each pilot has read the manual/ notice updates?

• How can the pilot search across documents that are in different formats?

• How can I track compliance entries across all documents in the library?

• How do I easily update the XML manuals and is there a web based approval process?

“It’s easy to buy iPad devices and download a few leading iPad apps but for a successful solution it is necessary to control the information flows on a daily basis, this is where these solutions live and die.”

• Are consumer devices suitable for aviation operational safety standards?

• Class 3 EFB technology looks old and is not keeping pace with consumer devices.

• What software platform should we use – our IT department has only Windows experience and no iOS experience?

• Should I permanently mount the device on every aircraft or should we just issue an iPad to each pilot?

Yes, the issue of EFB document management is a complex one with no one-solution-fits-all but there are common guiding principles to chart the way forward. Here are a few of my tips that resolve most of the issues outlined above.

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You will see how this documentation management software can greatly enhance the efficiency of an EFB and can be accessed via an iPad or Tablet device.

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iPad device management is the key component

The core of a successful iPad EFB solution is the ground based iPad device management system. It’s easy to buy iPad devices and download a few leading iPad apps but for a successful solution it is necessary to control the information flows on a daily basis, this is where these solutions live and die.

The key functions in iPad device management are as follows: • Synchronise data to each iPad; • Deliver personalised data based on each pilot’s profile; • Upload new data; • Provide application interfaces to send and receive data to and from third party systems; • Track each device for compliance with latest data revision; • Ensure data security during data transfer; • Manage the communication methods such as Wi-Fi and 3G/4G; • Manage the registration of new devices and the removal of devices from service.

Focus on making the information available everywhere.

Publish once: access everywhere. As I mentioned above, pilots will access information from different devices at different times. So having the data in the right format is essential to creating a flexible solution. New devices will come and go but the information will keep flowing.

Leverage the power of XML

Your first question might be, what is XML? XML is a markup language. XML stands for eXtensible Markup Language. It is a language used by computers to transmit data and is particularly useful for communication between different types of information systems that would normally not be compatible with each other. Documents created in XML are highly structured and ‘intelligent’; whereas, document formats such as Word and PDF were designed for paper viewing.

The core of our philosophy is to publish once in XML format and access everywhere whether that is on a mobile phone, tablet or installed EFB. This is the power of XML; making information available to the pilot via multiple devices: the right information to the right person at the right time.

Mobile device are the current wave of new technology; airlines must embrace these technologies to stay competitive, help deliver a better service to passengers and increase safety. Pilots are only as good as the information they are given; so providing two-way real-time information flows to pilots is critical to successful management of flight operations. n

Niall O’Sullivan

CEO, Arconics

After qualifying in Industrial Design in 1990 from the University of Limerick, Niall worked in an architectural practice in San Francisco before returning to Dublin, Ireland to work in product design. He set up his own design consultancy business in 1993 which, by 1996, had evolved into an Internet business offering Content Management services to large publishers. In 2001, he set up Arconics offering Content Management services to airlines and Arconics‘ first customer, Ryanair, is still among the firm’s many airline clients.

Arconics specialize in Airline document management: www.arconics.com

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16 | CASE STUDY: ETIHAD | AIRCRAFT IT MRO | FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013

Information saves fuel and reduces emissions Mauricio J Arias, Program Manager – FOCOS (Fuel & Operations Cost Optimization System) Operations Logistics and Hassan Abouzeid, Data Analyst – Operations Logistics at Etihad Airways explain how they implemented an effective fuel savings program.

“The IATA analysis results triggered the launch of a number of operational fuel efficiency initiatives, however once in action, Etihad Airways faced challenges identifying which initiatives were delivering savings, which ones required modification to become effective, and what additional initiatives would be needed.”

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013| AIRCRAFT IT OPERATIONS | CASE STUDY: ETIHAD | 17 Click here for full SOFTWARE details and for a demo

Understand performance.

Improve efficiency. Reduce cost.

F

uel represents Etihad Airways’ largest operational cost and mitigating the negative impact of volatile fuel prices on profitability is crucial for our business. Linked to these costs, the quest to improve the airline’s fuel optimisation strategy led Etihad Airways in 2007 to ask the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to carry out a full Fuel Efficiency Gap Analysis.

The IATA analysis results triggered the launch of a number of operational fuel efficiency initiatives, however once in action, Etihad Airways faced challenges identifying which initiatives were delivering savings, which ones required modification to become effective, and what additional initiatives would be needed. It became evident that the next step in unlocking the airline’s fuel savings potential would require a more sophisticated measurement solution.

What was needed was a one-stop means of analysing all the details together and presenting them in a way that would enact change in our overall operational behaviours.

Making the right choice

It was very important to have a supplier that we could trust to deliver on the potentially large savings we believed could be realised. This was not an easy choice, as we knew that it had to take into account

a number of factors to ensure we, Etihad Airways, could also deliver on the project. Our selection criteria for a solution was based on the ability to accurately measure post-production fuel consumption, identify inefficiencies in operational working procedures, and target areas for fuel savings.

As we worked through the tender process responses and began to interact with the suppliers, what became increasingly clear was the need for a company that had excellent industry experience and one which was aligned with our goals of getting the most from a fuel savings implementation strategy as quickly as possible, and without compromising the long-term goal of the project.

Beginning the journey

The Etihad Airways selection process identified a clear winner in the Optimized Systems and Solutions (OSyS) Fuel Management Solution (FMS). This vendor offerd the right blend of product, process and experienced personnel necessary to deliver our business objectives.

As a first step, we worked closely with the selected vendor in conducting a structured data analysis and working practice reviews to allow the project to quickly gain momentum. Through face-to-face collaboration, we were able to identify a key set of data parameters and then extract them from the airline’s back office

OSyS Fuel Management Optimized Systems and Solutions (OSyS) Fuel Management Solution allows you to truly understand your operational fuel usage, enabling you to identify, implement, track and evaluate fuel saving initiatives. Our fuel system also combines with our emissions solution to monitor CO2 emissions, generate reports for authorities and provide the information needed to accurately forecast your carbon credit consumption.

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18 | CASE STUDY: ETIHAD | AIRCRAFT IT MRO | FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013

What’s in your next issue of Aircraft IT Operations?

Look out for your next issue of Aircraft IT eJournal with more great articles on topics you won’t want to miss contributed by people who know your world.

Aircraft IT Operations Volume 2 Issue 2 Due out: April 2013 The latest IT Operations News Data management

Populating and applying data to improve operational effectiveness.

IT and Safety Management Systems (SMS) How the application of IT to SMS can help move this critical operation from reactive to proactive.

iPad EFB

The implementation and experience of a new technology EFB at SriLankan.

Fuel Management

Fuel remains the largest cost in operating an airline so managing it is very imp;ortant.

The World according to IT & Me!

Paul Saunders’ column: taking a different view of your world

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Links to past webinars and guides to upcoming webinars Look out in early January for your next Aircraft IT Operations – bringing knowledge to your desktop.

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“…we developed custom views within our FMS for executives, managers, finance department and pilot users; ensuring each can have a fresh and tailored perspective of our aircraft, fleet, trends, operational initiatives, efficiency factors and environmental initiatives.” for analysis using the FMS. We agreed on prioritising the existing initiatives we had already launched to maximise their benefits, and suggested other quick wins we could implement immediately. This approach established a solid working partnership from the outset.

We observed many different complications with data from our multiple sources, however, by working together, we were able to overcome these to ensure we had a complete data set, something that is vital in realising the full benefits of a fuel management solution.

Our relationship with the vendor developed throughout the project, and both teams’ combined experience and collaboration resulted in various solutions to the issues we encountered. For example, now the airline has a more consistent data set on which to base its fuel optimisation decisions.

The FMS implementation was conducted in a phased manner and the regular technical and management interaction provided clear visibility of the project’s progress against an aggressive delivery timescale. As we learnt more about the solution’s potential and about our own needs, we extended the scope of our requirements.

Despite the changes, the solution was fully implemented within the agreed timescales.

On-site consultancy and training were also provided to maximise our use of the new solution and to equip the airline with the skills to be self-sustaining.

Additionally, we developed custom views within our FMS for executives, managers, finance department and pilot users; ensuring each can have a fresh and tailored perspective of our aircraft, fleet, trends, operational initiatives, efficiency factors and environmental initiatives. We also worked with OSyS to take advantage of export functionality; allowing us to generate internal reports that give a consistent look and feel.

Moving to service and securing the benefits

To ensure a smooth transition from implementation to service, Etihad Airways worked collaboratively with the vendor, making sure that the solution was well publicised and that it had a high level of support within our organisation, which is a prerequisite for any successful change management activity. The OSyS Service Support Model has an established mechanism for capturing and addressing even the smallest query to resolution; and this was and is crucial in supporting our roll-out of the FMS.

As a result of the above engagement, Etihad Airways now understands the flexibility of this comprehensive solution and the on-going potential it presents for the airline. Indeed, within the first two months of service, we have been able to realise significant savings in fuel costs and we have also reduced emissions. n

ABOUT ETIHAD AIRWAYS

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, was set up by Royal (Amiri) Decree in July 2003. Etihad Airways commenced operations in November 2003 and in nine years has become one of the fastest growing airlines in the history of commercial aviation.

This airline has received a range of awards that reflect its position as one of the world’s leading premium airline brands, including ‘World’s Leading Airline’ at the World Travel Awards for four consecutive years.

Its main business is the international air transportation of passengers. Etihad Airways also operates Etihad Holidays, Etihad Cargo and a global contact centre organisation as part of its commercial group.

The carrier’s global network now covers 86 of its own passenger and cargo destinations, and 248 codeshare destinations.

Etihad Airways and its equity partners collectively carried more than 74 million passengers in 2012, with cooperation between the five airlines greatly contributing to passenger growth.

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013| AIRCRAFT IT OPERATIONS | SAUNDERS’ – CONDUCE CONSULTING | 19

The World according to IT Are business cases stifling innovation?

Words: Paul Saunders

...and me!

“…we trust our colleagues to make the right call; and this is happening hundreds of times within our businesses every day.

This same level of empowerment is rarely granted to technology departments. Yet, IT expenditure is often governed by the same life cycles as other elements of the business.”

T

he debate is still raging amongst software vendors as to whether mobility is a passing fad or a necessary cost of doing business. Some of the mobility doubters seem to favour the stock answer… ‘What’s the business case?’

Whether or not you support my belief that mobility is a requirement for aviation, it is certainly the case that the traditional way of thinking about business cases is stifling our industry’s ability to embrace emerging technologies.

Most businesses have some kind of formal process for assessing, evaluating and approving capital expenditure. Rules and financial algorithms have been tried and tested over the years for high value asset acquisitions like aircraft and information systems whose normal life cycles are measured in decades.

Thankfully not all costly decision making events are governed by such time consuming exercises.

We employ staff to make costly safety and airworthiness decisions as part of their day to day work. It would be ridiculous to suggest that a pilot

should have to consult an accountant every time they need to make a diversion on safety grounds.

Likewise, a line engineer doesn’t need a hotline to the finance department in order to decide if a component is airworthy or not. Pilots and engineers quite rightly expect a level of empowerment to make snap judgements based on the best information to which they have access. The cost of technical delays and fuel burn for seemingly mundane operational decisions can amount to vast financial figures, but we trust our colleagues to make the right call; and this is happening hundreds of times within our businesses every day.

This same level of empowerment is rarely granted to technology departments. Yet, IT expenditure is often governed by the same life cycles as other elements of the business. Whilst, at the turn of the century, it was reasonable to expect that a server or a desktop computer would still be in use after ten years, this approach is laughable in 2013 when applied to many hardware and software projects.

Consumer technology life cycles are nowadays measured in days not years.

More progressive businesses seek to embrace emerging technologies to gain a strategic advantage over their competition. Waiting until technologies are mature and used by the majority avoids risk, but also means that a competitive advantage is lost. Adoption

of ubiquitous technologies only avoids a disadvantage.

I recently heard about a European airline that was looking to equip line engineers with tablet devices to gain access to technical publications and work instructions. The business case was sound. In fact it was a ‘no brainer’. However the time taken to receive the project green light was so long that the selected hardware had been superseded and the business case invalidated.

I also heard about a software vendor who was looking to outsource the development of a mobile solution for their software. Time was of the essence to bring the application to market ahead of the competition. A supplier was chosen, but the contract and commercials took longer than the proposed development project. Furthermore the time spent by the executive team on conference calls, internal meetings and consultations with lawyers came close to exceeding the actual cost of the outsourced work. The vendor lost the advantage of being first to market and their production costs were inflated.

Of course it’s reassuring that our business leaders have a keen interest in technology expenditure, but don’t you think that it would be advantageous to employ technologists who are granted the same level of trust and empowerment as we grant to pilots and engineers? Well, that’s how it seems to me. n

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20 | WHITE PAPER: SITA | AIRCRAFT IT MRO | FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013

N

o doubt, the introduction of a new generation of IT-enabled aircraft will eventually present an enormous opportunity for airlines to optimize their aircraft and flight operations. However, for the moment at least, the reality is different. For continuity and safety reasons, aircraft communications will continue to use a combination of ACARS (Aircraft Communications, Addressing and Reporting System) and new Internet Protocol (IP) platforms, and for many existing fleets (there are currently some 20,000 aircraft in commercial operation worldwide) the costs of retrofitting IP platforms may not be justifiable in the context of their remaining service life.

Because of this, even entirely new aircraft types, such as the airbus A350, due to enter service in 2014/2015, will still include an ACARS communication module for several years to come. It is reasonable to expect that ACARS will continue to co-exist with IP-based communications for the foreseeable future to support applications for which IP is not yet approved or practical.

Broadband on the ground and in the air

The ‘Digital Aircraft’ – heralding a new generation of aircraft operations Airlines, says Mario Sabourin, Sr. Product Manager, EFB at SITA, will have to address the challenges as well as opportunities from new generation IT in aircraft

In addition to the existing systems using analogue voice and data radios for current communication, navigation and surveillance functions, new IT-enabled aircraft are also equipped with both wired and wireless broadband interfaces. These establish communications between the aircraft and core IT systems on the ground as well as flight operations, dispatch, maintenance, in-flight services and quality departments, among others.

Wireless IP connectivity links today are primarily enabled by a Terminal area Wireless LAN Unit (TWLU) while the aircraft is on the ground to exchange large volumes of non-time sensitive data, such as trending data, on-board manual updates, loadable software, and media content. While the first TWLUs relied on coverage provided by Wi-Fi access points at gates, newer equipment is beginning to incorporate additional compatibility with WiMAX (Worldwide interoperability for Microwave Access) and cellular 3G (or even 4G) technologies, which could enable wireless communications anywhere on the airfield.

On the other hand, in-flight transfers of time critical data (such as flight plan updates, graphical weather or incident driven transfers) are carried out using high speed satellite data units which connect with satellite networks, offering broadband services like Inmarsat’s Swift services, the upcoming iridium NEXT and Ku/ Ka-band satellites.

New generation aircraft, new digital opportunities

The introduction of IP systems, tools and applications – and with it a growing IT infrastructure on-board aircraft – will have a broad impact on operations within

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013| AIRCRAFT IT OPERATIONS | WHITE PAPER: SITA | 21

“It is reasonable to expect that ACARS will continue to co-exist with IP-based communications for the foreseeable future to support applications for which IP is not yet approved or practical.” airlines and ground handlers, as well as among other stakeholders. Overall, the industry expects these capabilities to help mitigate inefficient working practices and enable a culture of continuous improvement. In addition, there are expectations about new ways for airlines to differentiate their passenger offerings and to generate extra revenue.

Widespread strategic benefits

The benefits of using IP systems, tools and applications and IT infrastructure on-board aircraft will be felt in many of the areas and operations that are of key importance to airline performance and success: • Assisting on-time departure. A pilot’s ability to search for and obtain information electronically in mere seconds, as opposed to flipping through a paper manual, could mean the difference between incurring a costly delay and an on-time departure.

• Faster reaction times, greater agility. Repair and maintenance actions reported electronically in-flight through e-log Books can be propagated through the entire system much faster than paper-based records. This gives operators precious time to plan resources more effectively and to initiate diagnostic activities even before the aircraft touches down.

• Improved flight safety. Being able to obtain complete and timely information, such as graphical weather and load sheets, is set to play a critical role in advancing flight safety measures. The ability to use moving map displays to see nearby traffic and own aircraft position on the airport will greatly reduce the risk of collisions and inadvertent runway incursions. In more isolated scenarios, real-time connectivity could provide an invaluable aid to cabin attendants during medical emergencies, proceeding under the guidance of qualified personnel on the ground while allowing the flight crews to determine the best course of action.

• Enhanced operational performance. Timelier analysis of more complete Flight Operations Quality Assurance (FOQA) datasets by flight operations will lead to modifications to pilots’ procedures. In turn this will contribute to improving operational performance and reducing fuel consumption or engine utilization, benefiting a range of airline functions, from commercial to maintenance, flight dispatch and fuel sourcing.

• Reduced reliance on purpose-built infrastructure. Through the growing adoption of generic technologies or those already proven in other industries, it will be possible to reduce dependence on proprietary and/or purpose-built infrastructures. In practice, this will translate into employing the most appropriate means by which an aircraft and its systems can be accessed, as dictated by the operator’s business rules, rather than being compromised by the capabilities of the local infrastructure.

• Improved aircraft turnaround. New capabilities will positively impact aircraft turnaround. Information can be received while the aircraft is still in flight, enabling troubleshooting to begin immediately and accelerating corrective actions, rather than waiting until the aircraft lands. The availability of real-time information about passengers’ whereabouts and baggage reconciliation – together with timelier and better quality communications with ground handlers, caterers, fuellers, de-icers,

baggage handlers, cleaners – will help minimize the potential for detaining aircraft at the gate. In turn, this will eradicate the ripple effect throughout the entire airport and airspace systems that has, until now, reduced their effective capacity.

• Better on board customer services. Thanks to internal and customerfacing process improvements, and the improved accessibility of information, cabin crew will be able to provide a more personalized customer service. Passengers can be alerted to operational disruptions, with alternative arrangements and information offered as they become available, helping them to feel more in control of their itinerary and reducing stress. Similarly, airline cabin and ground staff will be better placed to assist and reassure those passengers experiencing difficulties instead of wasting valuable time answering generic, repetitive queries.

• Increased passenger loyalty and incremental revenues. In-flight entertainment content can be automatically updated while the aircraft is at the gate, meaning on-board services are not only up to date but can be customized according to passenger preferences. Wireless broadband in the cabin offers passengers the chance to use their mobile phones inflight, for calls, text messages, and email. Potentially they can also use their laptops to surf the web, watch their favourite TV show, live news, entertainment and sporting event broadcasts. Business travellers in the meantime can log into their corporate VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) to access e-mail and company information, reducing unproductive travel downtime.

22 | WHITE PAPER: SITA | AIRCRAFT IT MRO | FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013

“With flight safety ever more dependent on IT security, designing and ensuring secure IP communications between aircraft and ground systems will be a critical challenge.”

Ultimately, all of these benefits will permeate other areas within an airline, many of them localized at first. But the airline’s operations will, over time, become more streamlined. At the same time, the synergies of exploiting new aircraft capabilities will lead to increasing returns on a networked basis, as more and diverse stakeholders become involved. In this scenario, security is paramount. To realize the promise of IP, systems integration and the availability of secure communications is critical to ensure that ITenabled aircraft interact safely with core IT systems.

The promise of IP: at-a-glance

• Replacing paper forms and documents with their electronic versions.

• Using electronic distribution systems rather than physically delivering documents and records.

• Minimizing data entry (and eradicating re-entry).

• Standardizing processes for greater consistency.

• Automating and integrating manual tasks.

• Providing automatic exception alerts.

• Running multiple tasks in parallel.

• Creating a context-aware ecosystem.

Making headway in a complex world

The operational and commercial drivers for integrating aircraft and ground IT systems suggest a strong and steady migration towards a new generation of aircraft operations. But realizing these benefits means creating a global industry infrastructure that enables a complete and seamless integration of on-board systems, tools and applications with core IT systems on the ground. That is not without its challenges.

The extent to which airlines can benefit from IP technologies and onboard IT systems will depend on how each implements and exploits new applications as they arise, and how successfully they integrate new systems with existing infrastructure.

There are multiple considerations of which airlines and aircraft operators need to take note when trying to make the best use of new technologies and systems in the context of having to also work with established methods and equipment.

• Integrating cockpit IT into airline IT environments. As with airport IT domains, airlines need to tightly integrate cockpit IT systems with their central IT networks. However, unlike airport IT systems, cockpit systems pose unique constraints that complicate their integration with ground IT systems. Some constraints are the direct result of strict regulations

governing all aspects of aircraft maintenance and flight operations.

Others are the product of assumptions made by air frame makers in the design of new generation aircraft, which envision future infrastructure scenarios that can take a long time to materialize.

• Building intelligent network services for cockpit IT. New generation aircraft applications using cockpit IT platforms will generate and exchange much greater volumes of data than ACARS applications. This makes it essential to manage information in smarter ways. Airlines need the tools to control how, where and with whom aircraft information is exchanged, in line with their unique business requirements. That includes the ability to prioritize and pre-empt information exchanges to ensure that time-sensitive data is sent ahead of non-critical data, or that non-critical data is exchanged only when the most cost-efficient links (such as wireless links at airports) are available.

• Using generic commercial technologies. As in other industries, the trend towards using commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) technologies whenever possible is pervading the airline sector. Airlines expect new generation cockpit IT systems to take advantage of proven COTS technologies such as IP, Windows, PCs, Wi-Fi, satellite broadband and so forth, with an evolutionary path to future technologies as these become available. But because generic technologies were not designed with airline operations in mind, adapting them to cockpit IT systems while compensating for the unique complexities that characterize the air transport industry is far from straightforward, and can often negate the cost savings from deploying COTS. • Ensuring information and IP-network security. The importance of security and data protection cannot be overemphasized in the highlyconnected aircraft-ground IP environment model. Airlines simply cannot afford to import the risks often associated with generic IP ground networks into the aircraft domain, and data must remain secure whether the aircraft is at the gate, taxiing or in flight.

The introduction of IP means that cockpit IT platforms use generic operating and software applications, with options for airlines to add buyerfurnished systems and applications. As such, the aircraft will demand all the considerations that airlines need to address on the ground for IT services – but with a greater focus on safety and criticality of operational performance.

At the same time, new cockpit systems require an environment where communications with airline ground systems and authorized third parties can take place reliably, transparently and securely. For commercial and practical reasons, ground-based systems and passenger cabin applications must also be able to share communications and IT infrastructure while

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013| AIRCRAFT IT OPERATIONS | WHITE PAPER: SITA | 23 commercial considerations are one of the many aspects that need to be delicately balanced, along with functionality, practicality and regulatory requirements.

These complex considerations are compounded by the need to co-ordinate with multiple suppliers and organizations around the world (all of which are in various stages of preparedness) to ensure interoperability across the entire route network. Faced with this complexity, it’s not hard to see why the transition to new generation platforms will demand a coordinated, holistic approach to process redesign, technology, infrastructure integration and business process transformation. n

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Product Manager EFB, SITA

SECO LLITES: PRIMARY SATE

Mario Sabourin, joined SITA’s innovation team in 2008 to investigate and define new services around data and event management. He joined the Aircraft Services Solution Line in 2011 to bring SITA’s e-Aircraft Application Services to market. Based at Montreal, Canada, he is responsible for eliciting EFB-related business requirements, defining business models and service architecture, conducting joint innovation programs with customers and partners (beta trial and Proof of Concept), product marketing and pricing, partnership management and other product management activities.

Prior joining SITA in May 2008, Mario held systems engineering and management positions in large global companies such as Motorola and Lockheed-Martin.

He is also a graduate of McGill University (B. Eng. Electrical ‘88), Ecole Polytechnique de Montreal (M. Eng. Electrical ‘03), and Fordham University, NY (MBA in product management and corporate finance ‘08) and holds professional certifications in project management (PMP), product management (NPDP), and business process improvement (Six Sigma Green Belt).

S SATELLITE SECONDARY S FORMS: ED IN VARIOU : CAN BE US options are Transparency

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ELLITES: PRIMARY SAT

Mario Sabourin Sr.

Click here for full SOFTWARE details and for a demo

LLITE NDARY SATE

being segregated from critical airline operational communications.

The on-board IT communications strategy must therefore address the aircraft’s use on the ground of airport wireless links (including Wi-Fi, Gatelink and 3G mobile) for cost-effective high data load exchanges; aircraft use of in-flight links including Inmarsat Swift Broadband among others for time-critical updates; and aircraft configuration in Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to guarantee secure access to and from authorized ground systems.

Security and integrity are vital considerations. With flight safety ever more dependent on IT security, designing and ensuring secure IP communications between aircraft and ground systems will be a critical challenge. Proper separation of cabin and cockpit communications will be required to guarantee the integrity of loadable software parts, and to comply with stronger rules on aircraft security mandated by the various civil aviation authorities.

It’s not hard to see why information security is becoming increasingly important for aeronautical information systems as they become more connected and more reliant on standardized technologies.

Effective guidelines and standards are lacking in this area, although the related areas of aircraft safety and IT system security are somewhat better provided for. And aircraft safety is based on strict certification of components and systems, which differs from the approach to ground-based IT systems. Conversely, considerable depth of experience exists in securing IT systems in a broader context, whereas aircraft systems have not previously been exposed to significant malicious electronic threats. Bridging the gap between safety-related certification and IT system security is not a straightforward undertaking. But it is one that will be necessary. This implies certification or an equivalent for the ground-based systems that interact with the aircraft and which could feasibly impact on flight safety.

• Managing mixed fleets. New systems and applications must not only coexist with current ACARS services; they must also continue to offer dependable airlinegrade service which provides a solid platform for more complex applications. That means being able to operate within the confines of long-standing, rigid procedures, while at the same time accommodating the coexistence of diverse aircraft fleets. This means different aircraft types, manufacturers, and now different IT systems and communications capabilities.

Airlines will need to equip aircraft with the necessary avionics and manage these over time, while also upgrading ground systems and corporate networks to ensure that bandwidth, security, data protection and authentication are all taken into account.

• Giving passengers choice and control. Offering connectivity services to passengers can help differentiate offerings and increase revenue. But

Adopt fast, adapt faster

Is your airline equipped for today’s fast-changing world?

Can you switch services and applications on and off instantly? Are smartphones all your passengers need to book, check in and board? Can you communicate and exchange operational information with your pilots around the globe? And can you seamlessly share realtime information and help people collaborate, wherever they are? Working together with SITA, you can say “yes” every time.

Discover SITA’s intelligent airline vision at www.sita.aero/airlines

24 | WEBINARS | AIRCRAFT IT OPERATIONS | FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013

Upcoming Live Software Demonstration Webinar at www.aircraftit.com this February and March Sign up to free live online software demonstrations for a perfect introduction to the world’s leading Flight Operations Software vendors and to learn how they can assist and add value to your operations

SITA Live EFB Connectivity Masterclass Webinar [Inc. Demo of AIRCOMConnect] n Session 1: 14th February 2013 - 7:00 AM GMT/UTC n Session 2: 14th February 2013 - 3.30 PM GMT/UTC n Duration: 1 hour plus Q&A. n Session Agenda n Challenges and use cases for EFB connectivity n Introduction to AEEC 841 Media Independent Aircraft Messaging n SITA’s AIRCOMConnect – features and benefits n SITA’s AIRCOMConnect – Live Demonstration

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ign up to attend this Webinar and be introduced to the benefits of SITA’s AIRCOMConnect, a new product in SITA’s e-Aircraft Application Services product line.

AIRCOMConnect facilitates EFB aircraft applications such as eTechLog to stay connected to ground applications, both in-flight and on ground. It leverages autonomous or existing aircraft communication systems over ACARS or broadband IP sub networks.

See how this new application can unlock the full potential of Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) and learn the vast operating benefits this brings.

AIRCOMConnect leverages industry standardization work such as development of: AEEC 841 (allowing the exchange of large volume of data over ACARS or broadband IP sub networks) AEEC 633 (describing Aeronautical Operational Control (AOC) XML and ACARS message formats)AEEC 619 (ACARS protocols for avionic end systems) ,and AEEC 744 (full-format (aircraft) printer).

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FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013| AIRCRAFT IT OPERATIONS | WEBINARS | 25

February and March will bring great opportunities for readers to attend programs covering leading iPad/EFB solutions and Fuel Management software solutions available on the market today. If you need to know more about either topic, you’ll save a great deal of time and gain a lot of what you’ll need to know to inform a good decision by simply attending these informative webinars.

Live software demonstration of AeroDocs EFB/ iPad Documentation Management System n Session 1: 28th February 2013 - 7:00 AM GMT/UTC n Session 2: 28th February 2013 - 3:30 PM GMT/UTC n Duration: 1 hour plus Q&A. n n n n n

Session Agenda An introduction to Arconics An introduction to EFB document management Introduction to Aerodocs software solution Demonstration of unique solution – Notices, Forms and Viewer

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ign up to view this Webinar and view a live demonstration of the popular and unique Arconics AeroDocs Documentation Management System for Notices, Manuals and Forms across EFB Class 1, 2, & 3, Web and Mobile solutions such as iPads, other Tablets and Smart Phones. The Webinar shows you how to efficiently manage documents across EFB, iPad and the web covering creation, distribution and reporting for Crew Notices, Manuals and Forms, thereby hugely increasing efficiency across the entire Flight Operations Department..

How to sign up for the Webinar:

Simply click on ‘Register for Webinar’ opposite; fill in your details and then select your preferred Webinar session. Full instructions on how to access the Webinar will be emailed to you.

Opposite: screenshots you will see during the Webinar.

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And remember that if you miss a webinar or are reading this after the live webinar has run, you can still access all of the benefits through a recording of the event – go to www.aircraftit.com/Operations/Webinars/Past.aspx for how to do that.

26 | CASE STUDY: EVOKE SYSTEMS | AIRCRAFT IT MRO | FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013

A

TQP (Alternative Training Qualification Programme) is a different way for airlines to conduct the recurrent training and testing of its pilots. There is still a requirement for companies to revalidate licence proficiency, but ATQP allows these checks to follow a format which is much less rigid than the traditional ‘box-ticking’ methodology of assessment. The operator can now create tailored training sessions and conduct an assessment of competency using more realistic scenarios, with the emphasis very much on training. Focusing on specific needs of fleets and groups of pilots, this targeted training can enhance performance while reducing costs.

ATQP allows operators to have different training programs for different fleets and differing operational needs. Some airlines will operate fleets that only fly long-haul routes connecting major cities so will only operate in and out of sophisticated airports in the developed world; others will fly high frequency short-haul flights to minor or marginal airfields with challenging air traffic environments or significant environmental (weather) and terrain considerations. The one-size-fits-all approach taken by the traditional training and testing regime is not always the most appropriate.

The intention of the scheme is always to improve standards, knowledge and proficiency in the disciplines where they are shown to be needed.

ATQP allows the airline to manage training time more effectively by conducting a task analysis of their own particular operation using evidencebased data and it allows an operator to respond more quickly to new equipment, new technology or a differing route structure.

Some mandatory tests are still required but, under ATQP, additional training time is made available by performing the statutory tests, such as engine failure during take-off, only once a year instead of every six months. Furthermore the frequency of the operator’s ‘line-check’ and safety equipment procedures training is extended to every two years instead of being an annual requirement. These extensions of currency are a real incentive to adopt ATQP as the savings made by reducing unproductive classroom time and the premium paid to employ checking pilots mean that costs are at least halved.

Who’s doing it?

In the UK the ATQP scheme is administered and approved by the Civil Aviation Authority and it has already been adopted by British Airways, EasyJet, FlyBe, Thomas Cook Airlines, Thomsonfly and Virgin Atlantic.

Other national aviation authorities offer similar schemes; in Europe Swiss International Air Lines, Air France, Flybe Finland and SAS Group have adopted ATQP.

Alternative Training Qualification Programme (ATQP) What, asks Captain Mark Linney, co-founder and director of Evoke Systems Limited, is in it for an airline’s operation?

“ATQP allows the airline to manage training time more effectively by conducting a task analysis of their own particular operation using evidence-based data and it allows an operator to respond more quickly to new equipment, new technology or a differing route structure. “

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013 | AIRCRAFT IT OPERATIONS | CASE CASE STUDY: EVOKE SYSTEMS | 27

What are the benefits of ATQP over traditional training programmes?

There are many aspects to ATQP that are beneficial to the airline and these include safety, finance and manning requirements together with numerous intangible reasons that, when understood and budgeted, make the decision to invest in an ATQP a ‘no-brainer’.

Firstly there is the safety case. A catch phrase frequently quoted in aviation, and often attributed to Easyjet’s Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, is; “If you think safety is expensive try having an accident!” This statement is so incredibly obvious and true that airline boards and senior managers are obliged to seriously consider any process that might contribute to a safer operation. Airlines can take years to build a good safety culture within the business and as long to gain a reputation for high safety standards with the public; but this status can be wrecked overnight. For many small or medium airlines the accidental loss of a hull or of any life or of injury could commercially destroy the business: it has happened countless times.

At best the insurance companies will be slashing discounts almost as quickly as passengers find alternative ways to travel. Companies therefore must realise that they would benefit from more investment in safety and training rather than cost cutting. Effective management of safety risks is the ultimate money saver.

Principally, under ATQP an airline’s training processes become much more melded to the company’s flight safety management system (SMS).

There is obviously a requirement for the two departments to share data and knowledge and this fact demonstrates one area where an investment in electronic data collection, mining and analysis tools is a necessity. ATQP not only allows the training department to use the task analysis to be proactive in designing training packages that manage risk (i.e. equip crews to

“ATQP not only allows the training department to use the task analysis to be pro-active in designing training packages that manage risk (i.e. equip crews to cope with difficult procedures or hazardous scenarios), but also allows the department to be more flexible.” cope with difficult procedures or hazardous scenarios), but also allows the department to be more flexible and react rapidly with appropriate training in response to unforeseen safety issues discovered by flight data monitoring analysis and/or reported through the company’s existing SMS. This is of course how it should be in any airline regardless of whether ATQP or traditional training methods exist. What is different with ATQP is that the nature of the programme unties the hands of the very people who know the operation and the accompanying risks best so that they come up with the solution. Regulators can never hope to have access to the amount of data available to the airline, nor should they be expected to be able to micro manage solutions to every risk that materialises.

Flying is incredibly safe, but not without risk. An unfortunate fact is that (more or less) 85% of all aircraft accidents or incidents (rare as they are) which result in loss of life or injury or damage to property are as a result of human error. Sadly, controlled flight into terrain (CFIT) or other events where control of the aircraft has been lost accounts for almost all incidents and accidents; with the correct training a pilot is unlikely to ever lose

control of an aircraft. With more automation comes a reduction in basic piloting skills and there needs to be greater resources allocated to this type of skills training. ATQP means more resources for real-world training.

Airlines using ATQP can devote time to tackle specific risks associated with their operation. For example an airline that operates turbo-prop aircraft in cold environments needs to have a high level of training and awareness relating to airframe and engine icing and how to avoid or deal with an occurrence. A ‘threat’ of this kind for a jet operator flying in a hot climate is almost none existent; these pilots will be much more concerned with landing and take-off performance.

Aircraft reliability and navigation systems have all developed amazingly over the last few decades, but sadly improvements to the frailties and limitations of the human being have evolved somewhat less quickly. Much has been done to address the limitations of the human machine and there is no doubt that better training techniques have played an important part.

ATQP represents the biggest shift in improving the quality and relevance of flight training in decades.

Then there are commercial benefits. Money is to be saved by less classroom time. Taking a pilot out of the cockpit and sitting him or her in a classroom is an expensive exercise, especially if the airline has to transport the pilot to the ground school from an outstation or fund a hotel room to accommodate them. Every hour in class is an unproductive hour.

With ATQP the frequency of many recurrent training sessions can be reduced. For example Safety Equipment Procedures (SEP) training, which is normally an annual requirement, can be done every two years.

There is also the opportunity under ATQP to make better use of expensive simulator hours. The traditional annual Licence Proficiency Check (LPC) is mostly unchanged under ATQP, but the time usually Click here for full SOFTWARE details and for a demo

28 | CASE STUDY: EVOKE SYSTEMS | AIRCRAFT IT MRO | FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013

Less classroom time –SEP every 2 years

Better use of expensive simulator hours

Scope for “commercial” training – CDA, fuel efficiency etc.

Manage safety risks – the ultimate money saver!

Fewer checking pilots – salary reduction

Fewer pilots needed overall as less checking

Potential Benefits of Implementing ATQP

EFOS Proficiency Check Form with Reasons for Repeat

EFOS Proficiency Check Analysis

“Taking a pilot out of the cockpit and sitting him or her in a classroom is an expensive exercise, especially if the airline has to transport the pilot to the ground school from an outstation or fund a hotel room to accommodate them. Every hour in class is an unproductive hour”

assigned for the Operators Proficiency Check (OPC) is now used in a way that the airline feels it will deliver the best training value. Almost all OPC time can now be devoted to line-orientated flight training (LOFT), that is to say the ability to practice and learn from ‘real-world’ scenarios. The checking element of the OPC can take the form of a line-oriented evaluation (LOE), or a test of skills related to the operation. There is no requirement to demonstrate skills where a level of competency has been demonstrated previously by the individual or by the airline as a whole.

Apart from training that is deemed necessary to ensure a safe operation the airline will now have the flexibility, time, resources and scope to introduce training which might have a commercial focus. Day-to-day procedures which concern efficiency (time and fuel) and have an impact on the airline’s bottom-line may be included more freely. Procedures at airports are constantly reviewed in the name of efficiency and pilots need to be trained to get the most benefit from these new techniques. For example constant descent approach procedures (CDA) and RNAV/GNSS (Area Navigation/Global Navigation Satellite Systems) approaches are being introduced and approved at more and more airports for which training needs to be delivered. All of these operational techniques save fuel, which for most airlines is the biggest single expense.

From a commercial point of view people costs are another significant overhead. Under the ATQP system because there is generally less checking then it follows that fewer check pilots are required. By definition check pilots are experienced and senior and thus expensive. It is true that the responsibility for standards and checking carries a salary premium, but more significantly an ATQP operator needs fewer pilots in number to cover the flying task given that fewer sectors will have check Captains sitting on jump seats. The maths is simple; an airline with 500 pilots will only need to conduct 250 line-check rides a year instead of 500. Regardless of all the other safety and commercial benefits, the saving in manpower by this one fact alone is the business case for investing in ATQP. There are also intangible and human benefits to be had with ATQP. The relationship between the line-pilot and the airline’s training organisation will change forever, for the better and almost overnight. Do not underestimate the payback this can bring. In the bad old days the six-monthly trip to the simulator was replete with dread and jeopardy. No one is tested more frequently than commercial airline pilots and a bad day in the simulator could spell the end of a well-paid career. This prospect could cast such a cloud of fear over proceedings (and thereby induce unimaginable stress) that an environment conducive to constructive learning would

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013 | AIRCRAFT IT OPERATIONS | CASE STUDY: EVOKE SYSTEMS | 29

How do I implement ATQP?

“ATQP has allowed Flybe to much more closely match their training requirements with the operational needs of the airline. Simulator time is now used to train in those areas demanding particular attention.” struggle to exist and of course this is exactly what we never wish to see. In the enlightened world of ATQP the ratio of testing versus training is turned on its head. Pilots will soon realise that the system is there to help them as compared with any notion (even if it was wrong) that the old system was there to trap them. The learning environment is vastly improved; skills, knowledge and proficiency are superior, safety is enhanced – it’s another ‘no-brainer’.

First and foremost decide if ATQP is right for your airline. If you are a UK operator see CAP 789.

Initially, contact your assigned Flight Operations Inspector (FOI). You will need to conduct a task analysis of every aspect of the operation from check-in to check-out. By this you will know where your existing skills are strong and where they might need constant or improved attention. You will also be expected to establish a safety case to provide justification and a rationale for the programme’s structure and content, supported by data gathered from a Flight Data Monitoring (FDM) system. The FOI will provide guidance, but at some point a formal implementation plan will have to be offered.

The FOI may approve significant departures from

Case Study – flybe

Flybe, Europe’s largest regional airline, started the process of working towards ATQP in 2009. Steve Deverall, Training Standards Manager, lead the project and devised some innovative home grown tools to carry out the training needs analysis required to tailor the airline’s training programme.

ATQP has allowed Flybe to much more closely match their training requirements with the operational needs of the airline. Simulator time is now used to train in those areas demanding particular attention. The objective of the ATQP project was to deliver enhanced training to

the pilots.

Until recently, Flybe maintained paper training records for 700 pilots and 900 cabin crew geographically dispersed over the UK. This was manually intensive, cumbersome and a potentially error prone process. Confirmation of training and check statuses under a complex regulatory regime was a continuous challenge. It was clear that the adoption of electronic training records was essential to Flybe’s growth plans.

In May 2012, Flybe selected EFOS from Evoke Systems to provide electronic crew training

records in a strategic move away from paper based records. The selection and introduction of EFOS has delivered not only an immediate and huge potential cost saving but also a significant improvement in the efficiency of the training process.

Steve Deverall, Training Standards Manager at Flybe comments that, “EFOS has significantly reduced the burden of paper while speeding up and improving our training processes. Also, by blending training feedback, actual experience and regulatory compliance, EFOS has certainly met the needs of our ATQP for flexibility in pilots’ simulator training.

“We were impressed by the vendor’s presentation and their willingness to engage with us as partners to tailor the product for Flybe’s needs.

They have a record of successfully addressing challenges similar to those we faced, and were responsive and helpful during the installation process. And we couldn’t have further developed our ATQP without them.”

The installation of EFOS starting in May 2012, has already delivered positive returns. With the need for an efficient system that can be tailored to fit the needs of an ATQP. It gives Flybe the ability to better manage and analyse its training, reducing wasted time processing paper and increasing time developing training programmes.

traditional training requirements and allow you to employ innovative training and qualification concepts: however, you will need to demonstrate that the resulting aircrew proficiency will meet or exceed that obtainable through a traditional programme.

The whole ATQP process is likely to take in excess of two years from first application to implementation.

This is driven by the required FDM and training records input over a suitable period. Most airlines will have FDM data covering many years, but few operators will have reliable data about training performance. Paper training records are notoriously bad for extracting reliable data and thus as soon as possible it is essential to deploy electronic record keeping that allows this analysis to take place. For as long as the ATQP is in place, a system of feedback from the training records system will also be required.

Airlines with multiple fleets might decide to introduce the scheme fleet by fleet.

As with all economies of scale it’s true to say that the bigger the airline the greater the potential benefit.

ATQP is essentially a process and one which is identical whether you have one aircraft or a hundred. If you believe that ATQP will help you to manage safety then you must give it serious consideration. n

Capt. Mark Linney

Founder and Director, Evoke Systems LTD

Mark Linney served 15 years in the UK Royal Air Force where he flew Tornado GR1, Hawk T Mk1 and Harrier GR7. His commercial flying began in 1995, flying Boeing 757 and, from 1998, ten years flying Boeing 747 Classic and -400. Mark is currently a Captain flying Airbus A340-300 and 600. In 2001, together with Dr Craig Howard, Mark co-founded Evoke Systems Limited, leading, in 2005, to the launch of EFOS (Electronic Flight Operations System).

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30 | WEBINARS | AIRCRAFT IT OPERATIONS | FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013

Past Webinars: View Video Recordings of our Live Software Demonstration Webinars at Aircraft IT

Build your own Flight Operations Software Demo Webinar Library. Search through and sign up to view the convenient video recordings of all previous Live Flight Operations Software Demonstration & Masterclass Webinars at the following link: www.aircraftit.com/Operations/Webinars/Past.aspx This exceptional video library contains recordings of Live Software Demonstrations and Masterclasses from the following major IT Vendors: Arconics, Flightman, AIR SUPPORT, ETS Aviation, BYTRON, Smart4Aviation, Flight Focus, OSyS, FuelPlus, Flygprestanda, Evoke Systems, T&A Systeme, SITA, AvioVision, FLYHT, plus more. An outline of four of the recent Webinar Recordings can be seen below.

Fuel Efficiency and EU ETS Reporting Masterclass Webinar

iPad/EFB Flight Operations Information Portal Software Demonstration Webinar

11th October 2012

25th October 2012

n Session OVERVIEW

n Session OVERVIEW

Sign up to view this Webinar Recoding and join Optimized Systems and Solutions (OSyS) for a Fuel Efficiency and EU ETS Reporting Masterclass. The Webinar will show you how an airline can improve and enhance its fuel data for EU ETS reporting and in turn use its processes and the improved data to optimize its fuel efficiency program.

You will also be talked through airlines’ and operators’ EU ETS Monitoring and Reporting requirements, how to improve and enhance key data, identify data problems, how to improve data availability and ensure accuracy. In turn, you will then see how to use this data to enhance an airline’s fuel efficiency program via reduced APU use, better flight planning and better fuel budgeting.

Sign up to view this Webinar Recording and see a demonstration of Smart4Aviation’s sophisticated Smart PORTAL software designed to provide airlines with one central location to access key, real-time Flight Operations information; including: documents, crew info, scheduling, reporting, rostering, NOTAM, weight & balance, Fuel reporting, plus more.

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You will see that this sophisticated IT solution is accessible via mobile devices such as smartphones and iPads and in the cockpit via an EFB interface, and is used by airlines such as Air France, Air Canada and Emirates but is suitable for airlines of all sizes. The live demonstration will show you three key elements of the Smart PORTAL: communications, cabin crew briefing and weight & balance.

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FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013| AIRCRAFT IT OPERATIONS | WEBINARS | 31

About the Live Software Demonstration Webinar Recordings

How it works.

Whether you missed them the first time around, need to refresh your understanding of available systems before making a key decision or if you are building a reference portfolio of relevant knowledge, these past webinar recordings will add vital market intelligence to your established professional skills. They’ll improve and sharpen your awareness of available solutions and add to your knowledge store. You’ll gain an overview of the major Flight Operations software systems on the market today, from the world’s leading IT Vendors, and all at a time and a place compatible with your busy schedule. Each demonstration lasts 1 hour, providing airlines and aircraft operators with the perfect introduction to each Flight Operations software solution demonstrated.

• Visit: http://www.aircraftit.com/Operations/Webinars/Past.aspx • Use the scroll option or view the details of the latest recorded sessions on the right and select a Webinar recording you would like to view.

• Next click ‘Register for Recording’ and enter your details.

• Once approved the video file will appear in your Member’s Area at the Aircraft IT website.

• You can then view the Webinar recording as many times as you wish, share it with your colleagues and retain it as part of your own market intelligence reference library.

Fuel Management Masterclass and Software Demonstration Webinar

Aviation Business Intelligence Software Demonstration and Masterclass Webinar

8th November 2012

29th November 2012

n Session OVERVIEW

n Session OVERVIEW

Sign up to view this Webinar Recording and take advantage of this chance to view a demonstration of a sophisticated, modern, modular fuel management system and learn how it can benefit airlines’ and operators’ entire operations and allow them to master the challenges of fuel management; in turn, saving huge costs.

Sign up for this Webinar recording and join IFRSKEYES for a demonstration of their Business Intelligence software solution IBIS (Integrated Business Intelligence System). During the Webinar recording video, you will see how by drilling deep into your Flight Operations and Aircraft Maintenance data you can enhance your company-wide decision making and generate key level reports.

You will learn how to establish a successful fuel management process or complement your own program and to understand and control the cost of fuel. Then via a live demonstration of the industry leading FuelPlus software solution, you will see how to monitor the following key areas: volume and budget planning; tender management; contract management; Flight and Fuel Operations; Tankering; Invoice checking and Accrual Management; and Fuel Intelligence.

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You will see how a sophisticated Business Intelligence software solution can complement your current software systems and provide much more accurate reporting data thereby greatly enhancing your ability for predictive decision making and therefore increasing efficiency and saving crucial costs in the long term.

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32 | VENDOR FLIGHT LOG | AIRCRAFT IT OPERATIONS | FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013

Captain Mark Linney: co-founder, Evoke Systems Limited

flew Tornado GR1, Hawk T Mark Linney served 15 years in the UK Royal Air Force where he Boeing 757 and, from 1998, Mk1 and Harrier GR7. His commercial flying began in 1995, flying a Captain flying Airbus A340ten years flying Boeing 747 Classic and -400. Mark is currently nded Evoke Systems Limited, 300 and 600. In 2001, together with Dr Craig Howard, Mark co-fou System). leading, in 2005, to the launch of EFOS (Electronic Flight Operations

What drives Evoke Systems Aircraft IT: Your name, your job title and the name of the business?

MArk Linney: Captain. Mark Linney, Founding Director, Evoke Systems.

Aircraft IT: How did Evoke Systems get started?

ML: Following 15 years’ in the RAF, I became a commercial airline pilot. Connecting ‘people’ at that time was based on pieces of paper in pigeon holes and Post-it® notes on notice boards, a way of working that, in a safety and security critical industry, was not fit for purpose. In 2001, with the internet starting to gain traction within the business world, I knew that it could play a big part in reducing airlines’ reliance on paper (and Post-it® notes!). I was introduced to Dr Craig Howard, a Computer Science lecturer at the University of East Anglia, who had the professionalism and technical skills needed to take advantage of this opportunity. A few weeks later, Evoke Systems was born.

Aircraft IT: What is the attraction of aircraft operations related Software?

ML: Aviation is a fascinating sector to work in with commercial airlines in particular operating in a highly competitive, dynamic and ever-changing environment. We provide tools that enable an airline to communicate effectively, manage safety and risk, and use data to drive efficiency. It’s good to know that managers have a much improved way to oversee the operation and when regulators and inspectors praise EFOS’ contribution to effective safety management.

Aircraft IT: What is the guiding business principle that drives Evoke Systems?

ML: Innovation and knowledge. We are very fortunate to have a great team and through them we’ve earned a well-deserved reputation for a great product and a first-class service. We also know and understand the domain really well. There are few software development companies that have current airline pilots on the board. For those that do, it shows; for those that don’t, it also shows.

Aircraft IT: What has been Evoke Systems’ greatest business achievement to date, and why?

ML: The business was a ‘from scratch’ start-up with no money, no track record, no clients, no staff, no premises and no product, just an idea. I am very proud of the company’s steady and sensible growth and especially the reputation it has earned through a good product, sheer hard work, integrity and an unstinting dedication to the client.

Aircraft IT: What have been Evoke Systems’ disappointments and what have you learned from them?

ML: That we didn’t invent Facebook! To be serious though, the UK and Europe is still in the middle of a long period of economic stagnation and one of the consequences of this has been that a few of our customers have not survived. It’s very sad when customers who have become friends lose their jobs. There are no real lessons in this; it’s just the way of the world sometimes.

Aircraft IT: In a paragraph, how would you summarize what Evoke Systems does for aircraft operations customers?

ML: EFOS is for commercial airline flight operations managers and pilots who are dissatisfied with the limitations of paper-based systems. it provides all the tools to solve complex data recording and administration tasks associated with managing an extremely mobile workforce in a highly regulated and safety critical industry. Our aim is to produce software that’s easy to use and enables our customers to streamline their processes to deliver real operational benefits. And of course to save money!

Aircraft IT: What is new on Evoke Systems’ development horizon?

ML: We’ve already joined up (in one place… with one password) almost everything to do with the working life of pilots and cabin crew.

So from here on our road map includes building more capability into existing areas and further developing quality management, flight time limitations, fatigue monitoring and enhancements to the safety management system. Of course, EFOS for the iPad will continue to play a big part.

Aircraft IT: What will be the next big thing in Operations software and hardware?

ML: At Evoke it’s going to be all about data-mining and intelligent data analysis to help customers optimize their operations. We are collecting vast amounts of operational data and there are some hidden gems in there if you know how and where to look.

Aircraft IT: What do you want your customers to say about Evoke Systems?

ML: That we’re professional, knowledgeable and reliable.

Aircraft IT: Mark Linney, thank you for your time.

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34 | TENDERS | AIRCRAFT IT OPERATIONS | FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013

Operations Software Tender Upload Aircraft IT website Operations Software Tender Upload function puts your requirements in front of all the leading Flight Operations IT Vendors.

t

he Aircraft IT Tender Upload function allows Airlines and Aircraft Operators the opportunity to send their software requirements to 30+ of the world’s leading Flight Operations IT Vendors at the click of a mouse. It’s all of a piece with Aircraft IT’s mission to put readers in front of as many opportunities as possible to maximise their professional effectiveness; this time by linking to other professionals with a proven track record of matching complex requirements with effective solutions.

Whether you are looking for EFB software and hardware (Class I, II, III), iPad Solutions for the Flight Deck, Flight Planning Software, Fuel Saving Solutions, Crew Scheduling Software, this Tender upload feature will allow you to send your requirements to all the major IT Vendors at the same time... and it’s not rocket science! In fact, it couldn’t be easier.

Here’s how it works:

• Visit the Tender Upload page at the Aircraft IT Operations Website by clicking here.

• Login below with your Aircraft IT Membership details. If you are not a member click on sign up and enter your details - it is free to join. If you are already logged in click on ‘Upload Tender’ below.

• Fill in the Tender Upload form and upload a PDF document of your requirements. Under the ‘Software Type’ section, which ever box you tick sends your Tender to all the IT Vendors in that section of the Aircraft IT website.

• Click ‘Upload Tender’ and your information will be sent to the key contacts at the IT Vendors.

Once the Tender has been uploaded the IT Vendors will very soon send you details about their software and product solutions that would be suitable to address your requirements.

Click here for full SOFTWARE details and for a demo

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ARMS® and InfoPrompt® are Registered Trademarks of Sheorey Digital Systems Ltd. Mumbai, India.

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013| AIRCRAFT IT OPERATIONS | VACANCIES | 35

Targeted opportunities

If you’re seeking out your next career move, then Aircraft IT Operations ‘Vacancies’ is the place to find great opportunities in the sector where your experience and skills are valued. Or simply use us for an overview of the market while deciding whether to move. Aircraft IT Operations is the specialist website and publication for your sector so you won’t have to trawl through a host of general vacancies to find the aviation IT ones that need your skills and will advance your career.

Aviaso

Aviaso

Job Alerts for first sight

As well as listing current career opportunities, Aircraft IT Operations ‘Vacancies’ also lets you sign up for ‘Job Alerts’, to receive email alerts and be among the first to learn about the latest opportunities and in pole position to put yourself forward.

Career opportunities currently on the website include the folliowing.

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Navtech

connecting aviation and software

…you won’t have to trawl through a host of general vacancies to find the aviation Operations IT ones that need your skills and will advance your career.

Your next career step Aircraft IT website ‘Vacancies’ page puts great opportunities with the best businesses in front of professionals in their field

Quality Assurance Engineer If you... … have solid experience in software testing and automation... … are passionate about quality... … have high standard for your work and the work of others... ... are interested how an airline operates and would like to understand complex business processes like crew planning, flight scheduling, crew communication, airline documents management... ... like challenging projects and learning new things... ... last, but not least – would like to work in a peopleoriented environment, where you can see the impact of your work, and where your achievements are also recognized and rewarded by the company... ... then we are looking forward to hearing from you!

CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS

Senior Software Engineer (Java) If you... ... are passionate about aviation and you want to contribute to innovative products for fuel efficiency and emissions management... ... are interested to help improving the global environment by reducing fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions produced by the airline industry... ... would like to work with top-of-the-line Java technologies like GWT, Eclipse RCP, OSGi, Hibernate rather than being locked in some old/ proprietary technology... ... like challenging projects and learning new things... ... are looking for a people-oriented environment, where you can see the impact of your work, and where your achievements are recognized and rewarded by the company... ... then we are looking forward to hearing from you!

CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS

Performance Engineer – Airport Analysis The principal work for the Airport Analysis Department consists of calculating maximum takeoff/landing weights and to secure safe procedures in case of an engine failure at airports. This is primarily performed using our in-house developed production tools, but a great deal of manual work is also part of the daily production. The daily work and responsibilities for this role consist of management and interpretation of authority data, updating our customized airport runway and obstacle databases, calculating safe procedures in case of engine failure and calculating maximum performance limitations for the aircrafts. The majority of the work is performed in close co-operation with our customers.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS

For career opportunities as professional as you and with you in mind, go to Aircraft IT Operations ‘Vacancies’ website and eJournal.

36 | SOFTWARE DIRECTORY | AIRCRAFT IT OPERATIONS | FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013

Operations Software Directory Key ‘at-a-glance’ information from the world’s leading Operations software providers.

From Electronic Flight Bags (EFBs) to Fuel Management Systems; From Flight Planning Solutions to Operations Cost Management — the leading IT vendors below can cater for all requirements.

ACFT PERFO

W: www.actperfo.com T: +352 26 12 94 E: info@ actperfo.com Company formed: 1999. Office Location: Steinfort, Luxembourg Number of Modules................10 Key Business/Software Areas • WORLD AIRPORT DATABASE Compatible for ALL TO Performance soft • All A/C Types TO. & LAND. Performance soft • EFB SOFTWARE SUITE • Operational support in Performance and Operations • EFLS Electronic loading system ground operations ACFTPERFO has acquired a solid experience in the development of electronic flight bags tools and related support since start up in 1999.

Our products are in continuous evolution in order to adapt to new regulations or practices in this rapidly changing business. We use our expertise to help the customers and our commitment is to find the best solution for any challenge an airline could face. Safety is a major concern of our ACFTPERFO team and our airport database has been developed to be the best on the market. It is maintained up to date using extremely efficient tools which guarantee the highest level of accuracy and follow up.

Click Here for Software/Product Details Click Here to Request Private Demo

aircore systems GmbH

AIR SUPPORT A/S

W: www.aircore-systems.com T: +49-2992-9771-40 E: info@aircore-systems.com

W: www.airsupport.dk T: 0045 7533 8889 E: pps@airsupport.dk

Company formed: 1992 Office Location: Fuerstenberger Strasse 70, DE-34431 Marsberg, Germany Name of Product Marketed • AS-FlightBag II Number of Modules..................5 Key Business/Software Areas • Library • Journey Log • Tech Log • Crew Briefing • Least Cost Routing

Company formed:1988; Office Location: Billund, Denmark Name of Product Marketed • PPS - Preflight Planning Solutions, CrewBriefing Key Business/Software Areas • Flight Planning • CrewBriefing facilities

The aircore_systems GmbH is a part of the PAS-IT-Group founded in 1992 and located at Marsberg, Germany, close to airport Paderborn (PAD / EDLP). The major difference to other companies is our combination of IT knowledge on the one hand and airline knowledge on the other hand as several staff members hold a valid captains rating on transport category aircraft in addition to their academic degrees.

The main software application of aircore_systems which is in use since many years at several airlines is the EFB solution: AS – FlightBag II: This product contains the following core modules: 1. Library: airline specific document management between ground and cockpit; 2. CrewBriefing: the operational flight plan and additional information deemed necessary; 3. JourneyLog: the flight data handling to and from the cockpit; 4.

TechLog: electronic workorder with eSignature and connectivity to several maintenance applications; 5. Least Cost Routing: minimization of data transfer costs between back office and cockpit.

Click Here for Software Details Click Here to Request Private Demo

Aircraft Management Technologies

W: www.flightman.com T: +353 1 8061000 E: info@flightman.com

Company formed: 2000; Office Location: Dublin, Ireland (HQ) Name of Product Marketed • Flightman™ Electronic Flight Folder Number of Modules................11 Key Business/Software Areas • Flightman™ connects aircraft to airlines’ backend systems via onboard EFB software applications and provides airlines with significant costs savings in both Flight Operations and Maintenance • Flightman™ runs on all classes of hardware (FAA EFB Class 1, 2, or 3) • Is independent of hardware vendor • Supports all aircraft types • Is able to host third party applications and is independent of operating system AMT (Aircraft Management Technologies) was founded to address the need in the market for an electronic means of capturing and reporting data between aircraft and central back office systems. Flightman™ represents a common sense application of emerging technologies that can automate existing processes in the cockpit, cabin and on the ramp, in turn reducing costs. AMT’s Flightman™ product is a complete Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) software solution. Flightman™ enables airlines to be compliant in all aspects of onboard flight operations in a cost effective manner and provides a platform for future revenue generation applications in the cabin. AMT’s patented, award-winning Flightman™ software comprises three main elements: 1) a set of onboard software applications, 2) a ground server for the management of EFBs, and 3) capabilities for optimized communications between the onboard software and ground systems.

Click Here for Software Details Click Here to Request Private Demo

AIR SUPPORT specializes in the provision of pc-based flight planning software systems with integrated web-based CrewBriefing — PPS and CrewBriefing - services to private and commercial business aircraft operators, regional/charter/cargo/national airlines, military/utility operators and flight service providers.

Today, PPS is used by aircraft operators throughout 32 countries operating more than 3000 turboprop and jet aircraft daily consisting of more than 350 different aircraft types and versions.

PPS is powered by LUFTHANSA Systems FlightNav worldwide navigation data including all global route restrictions, worldwide updated NOTAMs, Surface Weather data and Wind and Significant Weather charts based on original source data.

Click Here for Software Details Click Here to Request Private Demo

Arconics

W: www.arconics.com T: (00353) 1611 4625 E: info@arconics.com Company formed: 2001; Office Location: Dublin, Ireland Name of Product Marketed • Manual Manager, AirPortal, EFB Viewer Number of Modules..................5 Key Business/Software Areas • EFB Document Management • Airline content management • Flight crew notices management • Mobile document viewer apps • EFB document viewer Arconics is a leader in content management software and services for airline operators. Our team has over 10 years of world-class expertise in airline operations and document standards, web and mobile applications and XML data processing. Arconics provides EFB Document Management for Notices, Manuals and Forms on EFB Class 1, 2 & 3, Web and Mobile.

Arconics products reduce costs, improve efficiency, and ensure regulatory compliance. Thousands of flight and ground operations staff, pilots and cabin crew depend on Arconics products to help safely and efficiently operate their fleets every day.

Click Here for Software Details Click Here to Request Private Demo

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013 | AIRCRAFT IT OPERATIONS | SOFTWARE DIRECTORY | 37

Aviaso Inc.

W: www.aviaso.com T: +41 55 422 0000 E: info@aviaso.com Company formed: 2003; Office Location: Pfaeffikon, Switzerland Name of Product Marketed • Airline Portal, Fuel Efficiency, EU-ETS, ART-Aviation Reporting Tool, Additional Products.

Number of Modules.............. n/a Key Business/Software Areas • Airline Portal • Fuel Efficiency • EU-ETS • ART - Aviation Reporting Tool • Additional Products Aviaso is an international software company developing products exclusively for the aviation industry.

The focus of Aviaso is on complex, operational aviation topics such as Fuel Efficiency, EU-ETS, Aviation Reporting, and Crew Communication. Additionally, Aviaso has a long experience in integrating aviation IT systems and also develops the Aviation Portal – a leading intranet solution for aviation companies.

Furthermore, Aviaso maintains datacenters in Switzerland and Sofia and provides customized hostingservices for aviation companies.

Aviaso has its head office in Switzerland and software development centers in Sofia/Bulgaria and Kharkov/ Ukraine. The company has been founded in 2003 by Nicola Fantini, Rudolf Christen, Georgi Mitov, and Ivan Markov and has now a total staff of 23 employees.

Click Here for Software Details Click Here to Request Private Demo

AVIATION 42

W: www.aviation42.com T: +48 71 7230109 E: steve.crabb@aviation42.com Company formed: 2009; Office Location: Poland, UK, Denmark, Switzerland Name of Product Marketed • Sabre Reporting - Data Migration - Software Development - System Integration Middleware - Check Optimiser - RADIXX Interfaces - FAST Fatigue Data Extracts Number of Modules.............. n/a Key Business/Software Areas • Sabre Reporting & Integration • Data Migration • Software Development • System Integration • Middleware Aviation42 is a software company focused on providing Airlines with highly skilled, cost effective solutions in: Sabre Reporting and Integration; Custom software development; Data Migration; System Integration; Middleware; RADIXX Interfaces; and Fatigue Data Extracts

Click Here for Software Details Click Here to Request Private Demo

Aviovision NV

W: www.aviobook.aero T: + 32 16 29 89 80 E: info@aviovision.aero

The Boeing Company

Company formed: 2010; Office Location: Leuven, Belgium Name of Product Marketed • AVIOBOOK / EFB for Airlines & Business Aviation Number of Modules................10 Key Business/Software Areas • Main • Operational Flight Plan • Briefing • Weight & Balance • Charts • Performance • Reports • Library • Tools • EFB Ground Administration Tool AvioVision N.V. is a young Belgian company that is offering an innovative and comprehensive EFB solution, by facilitating integration of technologies in its EFB products, combining them with operational excellence into smart solutions for front line and back-office staff.

Click Here for Software Details Click Here to Request Private Demo

AviIT Ltd

W: www.aviit.com T: +44 (0)1383 620922 E: info@aviit.com

Company formed: 1916 Key Business/Software Areas • Electronic Flight Bag Solutions • Flight Operations Solutions Boeing offers the industry’s broadest range of aviation services to provide our customers the ultimate competitive advantage. We call this the Boeing Edge. In the information services field, we are keenly focused on addressing our customers’ continuous need for integration and optimization of information.

Using data, software, analytics and IT infrastructure, we connect airplanes, operators and data. We strive to enable smart and informed decision-making to take operational efficiency of their aircraft fleet and operations to the next level.

Click Here for Software Details Click Here to Request Private Demo

Want to keep up with IT developments?

Company formed: 2004; Office Location: Fife, Scotland.

Name of Product Marketed • Archimedes & eMan Number of Modules..................2 Key Business/Software Areas • ACARS data management - Archimedes • ACARS Technical Consultancy • Technical publications Distribution - eMan • Document Acknowledment - eMan Read & Sign • IT systems management & support AviiT is exclusively focused on the provision of software solutions to the aviation sector.

Drawing upon data sources such as ACARS, Archimedes provides a powerful capability to capture, analyse and present valuable, real time data in a clear and flexible format to Operation and Engineering teams. eMan provides an efficient capability for the distribution of technical publications across the maintenance and repair estate. Used by aircraft operators and 3rd party MROs alike, eMan unlocks the benefits of smooth and efficient distribution of engineering and process documentation. eMan is available as an on-premise or hosted offering for complete deployment flexibility.

Click Here for Software Details Click Here to Request Private Demo

W: www.boeing.com/boeingedge/informationservices E: TheBoeingEdge@boeing.com

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38 | SOFTWARE DIRECTORY | AIRCRAFT IT OPERATIONS | FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013

BYTRON

W: www.bytron.com T: +44 (0)1652 688626 E: info@bytron.aero

Company formed: 1984; Office Location: Kirmington, North Lincolnshire, UK Name of Product Marketed • skybook®eFB, skybook.aero, skylightES, Slot Management, Fuel Monitoring, AIS Notam Management Number of Modules..................6 Key Business/Software Areas • Electronic Flight Bag • Pre-flight Briefing • Airport CDM • Flight Data Management Systems • Air Traffic Control & Operational Management Systems BYTRON is a UK based company specialising in aviation data systems that provides totally integrated flight data management solutions, delivering operational data reliably to aircraft operators, airports and air traffic control. We provide a wide range of products and solutions, including EFB (Class I & II) solutions, Airport CDM, and much more.

The company’s design philosophy is, and has always been, to provide highly flexible, technically innovative, and compliant user-oriented solutions. With over 25 years of experience supplying aviation systems, we are experts at getting the right data, to the right place, at the right time.

Click Here for Software Details Click Here to Request Private Demo

DAC International, Inc.

W: www.dacint.com T: +512-331-5323 E: info@dacint.com

Company formed: 1984; Office Location: Austin, Texas Name of Product Marketed • Electronic Flight Bag, GDC64 (Tablet to Aircraft Interface unit) DAC International, Inc. specializes in Avionics systems for a wide range of aircraft including major and regional airliners. We offer cockpit system upgrades to meet new operational requirements as well as replacement for older systems. In-house capabilities include a range of analog-digital (A/D), digital-analog (D/A), digitaldigital (D/D) converters, Electronic Flight Bags (EFB) and Tablet to Aircraft Interface Units. (TAIU) Talk to us about anything from FMS, Cockpit Displays, CVR/FDR, Cabin Passenger Briefing systems, ARINC 615 data loaders and more. Certification and integration packages can be included.

Click Here for Software Details Click Here to Request Private Demo

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AircraftIT: All about Solutions for Airlines and Aircraft

EasyBrowse GmbH

W: www.easybrowse.com T: +49 385 343146-20 E: imke.koop@ovidius.com

Company formed: 1994; Office Location: Schwerin Name of Product Marketed • TCToolbox Airline Edition Number of Modules.............. n/a Key Business/Software Areas • EFB Software Solutions • Digital Documentation Management • Communication Optimisationy With the electronic publishing solution from EasyBrowse you create electronic publications ready to use on EFBs, in the Intranet or on iPads.

• Powerful search options • Virtual publications based on aircraft type / registration • Automatic database updates • Incremental updates • Bookmarks, notes • Zero footprint installation • Distribution management and monitoring • Support any SGML/XML structure plus a wide varity of their formats (PDF, graphics and video)

Click Here for Software Details Click Here to Request Private Demo

ETS Aviation Ltd.

W: www.etsaviation.com T: +351 91 580 1007 E: dscarlisle@etsaviation.com

Company formed: 2009; Office Location: Gibraltar, UK Name of Product Marketed • Aviation FuelSaver™, Aviation Footprinter™, ETS Support Service Number of Modules..................2 Key Business/Software Areas • Fuel-efficiency Software Solutions • EU ETS Data Management and Reporting Verificiation Software • Fuel Saving Consultancy • ETS Data management consultancy ETS Aviation Ltd. are specialists in fuel-efficiency programmes and emissions data management.

Since early 2009 our team of aviation specialists and software designers has helped hundreds of aviation operators all over the world. We work with airlines, business aviation operators and trip support companies. And we make their life easier.

We created the ground breaking Aviation FuelSaver™, software and consultancy programme - the easiest to use and lowest cost fuel efficiency system on the market - having already launched a software and consultancy solution called Aviation Footprinter™, for managing EU ETS (Emissions Trading Scheme) requirements.

Click Here for Software Details Click Here to Request Private Demo

Evoke Systems

W: www.evoke-systems.com T: +44 (3)456 521240 E: info@evoke-systems.com Company formed: 2001; Office Location: Norwich, England Number of Modules.............. n/a Key Business/Software Areas • Training Records and Expiry Management • Cabin Crew Flight Reports • Journey Log and Fuel Analysis • EU-ETS Management • Document Library and Notices Evoke Systems is a British software company founded in 2001 to provide innovative, cost effective solutions to the airline industry. EFOS (Electronic Flight Operations System) is a web-based crew portal and flight operations management system with supporting mobile device software for use as part of an EFB solution.

Evoke Systems has clients in both the commercial and business aviation sectors operating from the UK, Europe and the Middle East. They include start-ups and established airlines looking to streamline their processes. Our customers tell us that we provide exceptional levels of support and provide creative solutions to their problems.

Click Here for Software/Product Details Click Here to Request Private Demo

Flight Focus

W: www.flightfocus.net T: +65 6419 5299 E: sales@flightfocus.net Company formed: 2007; Office Location: Singapore (HQ), Jakarta and Bandung, Kuala Lumpur Name of Product Marketed • The Flight Focus PLATFORM™ Number of Modules.............. n/a Key Business/Software Areas • Electronic Flight Bag • Avionics Systems Integration • Flight Operations Support Services • Applications Services Provider (ASP) • Flight Operations Consultancy Flight Focus has been a supplier of innovative, leading edge Avionics and Electronic Flight Bag solutions and associated Flight Operations Support Services to the global aviation industry since 2007. Flight Focus employs over 130 staff who are engaged in a wide range of activities directly related to the design, development and delivery of its avionics solutions; this includes hardware and software design & development, manufacturing and maintenance, Flight Dispatch services & support, and global Sales & Marketing teams.

Headquartered in Singapore, Flight Focus has further office locations in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and Indonesia (Jakarta and Bandung) dedicated to research and development, software and hardware design, and technical support.

Click Here for Software/Product Details Click Here to Request Private Demo

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013| AIRCRAFT IT OPERATIONS | SOFTWARE DIRECTORY | 39

Flygprestanda AB

W: www.flygp.se T: +46 40 642 00 10 E: sales@flygp.se Company formed: 1969; Office Location: Malmö/Sweden, Connecticut/USA Name of Product Marketed • Airport Analysis, Performance GURU, FOCS Number of Modules.............. n/a Key Business/Software Areas • Aircraft Performance Services • Flight Planning Software • Performance Engineering • Special Performance Calculations • Engine Failure Procedures Flygprestanda AB, a pioneer in aircraft performance calculations, was founded 1969.

For over 40 years Flygprestanda has been in the forefront of providing aircraft operators of all kind with high quality services. Today Flygprestanda is serving around 200 customers worldwide from the head office in Malmö, Sweden and continues to lead innovation in this part of the aviation industry with its well known Airport Analyses, Performance GURU and Flight Operations Control System (FOCS).

High quality performance calculations for take off and landing are essential for safe flight operations and a modern flight planning solution is the key to achieve the most cost efficient operations possible.

Click Here for Software Details Click Here to Request Private Demo

FLYHT - AeroMechanical Services

W: www.flyht.com T: + 1-403-250-9956 E: sales@flyht.com

Company formed: 1998; Office Location: Calgary, Alberta Canada Name of Product Marketed • AFIRS 220, AFFIRS 228, FLYHTStream, FIRST Number of Modules.............. n/a Key Business/Software Areas • ACARS over Iridium • Global Communications and Flight Following • Accurate and automated OOOIs • Real-time FDM for FOQA • Real-time Fuel Management System FLYHT’s AFIRS™ 228 is the only system to bridge gaps in ACARS coverage using the Iridium® global satellite system while also being Future Ready™. AFIRS goes beyond ACARS data with Configurable Intelligence on Demand™. No longer is your investment in ACARS connectivity restricted to accessing only ACARS data. Your aircraft is rich in non-ACARS data that if accessed can significantly improve operational efficiency and profitability. Through our on-demand capability we ensure that additional connectivity and functionality is available at your fingertips - enabling your ACARS over Iridium investment to do more than just offer global coverage.

Click Here for Software Details Click Here to Request Private Demo

FuelPlus Software GmbH

W: www.fuelplus.com T: +49 (511) 496050 E: info@fuelplus.com

Company formed: 2000; Office Location: Hannover (Germany), Brasov (Romania), Johannesburg (South Africa), Boston (USA) Name of Product Marketed • FuelPlus Number of Modules................15 Key Business/Software Areas • Fuel and Operational Analysis • Emission Monitoring & Reporting • Fuel Supply Management • Fuel Operations Support • Fuel Accounting FuelPlus, a leading provider of fuel management IT solutions for the global aviation industry, enables airlines to implement and operate sophisticated fuel management processes which improve internal efficiencies, and achieve substantial savings.

FuelPlus consists of a set of modules to handle fuel planning, tendering, contract management, inventory and supply chain management, operations, tankering, EU ETS emissions monitoring and reporting, prepayment, and accounting.

Click Here for Software Details Click Here to Request Private Demo

G-AERO division of GrandTrust InfoTech Pvt Ltd

W: www.g-aero.com T: +91 9995801266 E: raju.v@grandtrustinfo.com

Company formed: 2008; Office Location: Cochin, India Name of Product Marketed • G-COMS Airline Cost & Contract Management System • G-RPS Airline Route Profitability System • G-ARMS Airport Revenue & Contract Management System • G-GRMS Ground Handling Services Revenue & Contracts Management System Number of Modules.............. n/a Key Business/Software Areas • Airline Contract Management • Airline Cost Management, Budgeting and MIS/Dashboard Reporting • Airline Route Profitability • Airports / GHA Contracts Management • Airports / GHA Revenue Management G-AERO offers a suite of innovative software products for Airline, Airports and Ground Handling Agents for their Contracts, Cost and Revenue Management. G-AERO product suite not only helps to implement proven industry best practices but also assures direct financial benefits. G-AERO uses latest, secure Microsoft .Net technology in developing its solutions. G-AERO believes in providing best value for money for their customers and there by ensures quick ROI.

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IDMR Solutions

W: www.IDMR-Solutions.com T: 347-565-4367(IDMR)

E: irevivo@IDMR-Solutions.com Company formed: 2008; Office Location: Cochin, India Name of Product Marketed • InForm Number of Modules.............20+ Key Business/Software Areas • Technical Manuals • Ground Ops • Audits • Distribution IDMR is a global provider of easy to use and all encompassing Technical Documentation Management Solutions which have been designed exclusively for Fleet operators, MRO providers and OEM organizations. IDMR’s Technical Documentation Management Solutions have proven success in increasing operational performance and decreasing operational cost while insuring airworthiness, safety and regulatory compliance.

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IFR SKEYES

W: www.ifrskeyes.com T: +33 (0) 562 74 75 00 E: commercial@ifrskeyes.com Office location: HQ: Colomiers / France. Offices in Moscow ; Singapore ; Quito (Ecuador) Name of Product Marketed • AMASIS –> 7 core modules + 6 add-ons • KEOPS –> 8 core modules + 11 add-ons • IBIS –> 6 core modules Number of Modules................13 Key Business/Software Areas • Flight Scheduling and Flight tracking • Crew rostering / Management • Communication management (movements, load, ATC slots, web based crew portal) • Budgeting and post flight analysis • Business intelligencee KEOPS as a complete information system is the spine of Airline operations. The information is controlled and enhanced as the events occur (Flight scheduling, Crew management, Logistics, Flight tracking, Performances, DOC Analysis …) to analyse the activity and monitor associated costs. These financial data enrich a database to generate budget simulations, or hypothetic flight quotation. The combination of the 19 modules and add-ons of this integrated software ensures the company a full operational and financial control of the whole activity. Powerful communication functions spread and automatically integrate the messages linked to the different operational participants (services, crew, suppliers, IATA)..

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40 | SOFTWARE DIRECTORY | AIRCRAFT IT OPERATIONS | FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013

InfoTrust Group, Inc.

W: www.infotrustgroup.com T: 949-732-7532 E: loster@infotrustgroup.com

Company formed: 1994; Office Location: Irvine, CA, Boulder, CO, Phoenix, AZ, Austin, TX, Shanghai, China, Paris France Name of Product Marketed • TechSight/X S1000D, TechSight/X ATA Number of Modules.............10+ Key Business/Software Areas • Content Management System (CMS) • Interactive Electronic Technical Publisher (IETP) • Technical Operations Edition • Technical Publications Edition • Flight Operations Edition InfoTrust Group is a recognized leader in the aerospace industry for more than 25 years. InfoTrust delivers solution to hundreds of companies for their information processing, conversion, authoring, content and change management, publishing and distribution objectives. InfoTrust’s wide range of end-to-end solutions that increase productivity by taking advantage of XML capabilities and content reuse, and that produce more accurate and reliabile information for compliancy. Its solution support all flight ops, engineering, maintenance, engine, component and training manuals. InfoTrust currently services major airlines, OEMs, suppliers and MRO s worldwide. To learn more about TechSight/X and InfoTrust Group’s full range of products, services and solutions, please visit www.infotrustgroup.com.

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AircraftIT: All about Solutions for Airlines and Aircraft

Ovidius GmbH

W: www.ovidius.com T: +49 30 4081895-0 E: imke.koop@ovidius.com

Company formed: 1996; Office Location: Berlin Name of Product Marketed • TCToolbox Airline Edition Number of Modules........... n/a+ Key Business/Software Areas • EFB Software Solutions • Digital Documentation Management • Communication Optimisation TCToolbox Airline Edition is a comprehensive package consiting of tools that support the complete workflow of the manual creation and distribution process: TCToolbox being an approved and robust Content Management System (CMS); SGML-/XML-based CMS; Versioning, access control; Rights management; Supports any graphics format; Importing of Excel tables; Re-use of information modules and graphics; Effectivity management; and Automatic generation of change marks The powerful typesetting system TopLeaf from Turnkey supports the automatic generation of PDF files and revision packages.

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Navtech, Inc.

W: www.navtech.aero T: +1 519 747 1170 E: info@navtech.aero

Company formed: 2002; Office Location: Waterloo, Canada; Surrey, UK; Kista, Sweden Name of Product Marketed • Aircraft Performance Family: ToDc, Weight & Balance, Airport Obstacle Database, Driftdown Data, WiFly. • Charts Family: Aerocharts, Enroute Charts, eCharts, iCharts• Crew Family: Navtech PBS, Navtech Optimizer + partner offerings from IBS, IBR and eTripTrader • Electronic Flight Bag - solutions for viewing Navtech eCharts, Aircraft Performance products, and Navtech Flight Plan via EFB • Flight Planning Family: Navtech Flight Plan + weather services • Navigation Data: data from suppliers such as: GE, Honeywell, ARINC, Universal etc.

Number of Modules..................6 Key Business/Software Areas • Aircraft Performance • Flight Planning • Flight Dispatch and Weather & NOTAM • Crew Scheduling/Planning • EFB Software Solutions • Weight & Balance Navtech, Inc. is a leading global provider of flight operations solutions, serving more than 350 airlines and aviation services customers. Navtech’s product suite includes aeronautical charts, navigation data solutions, flight planning, aircraft performance software (take-off/landing, weight and balance), and crew planning solutions. Many of Navtech’s products can be configured as part of an EFB solution, including take-off data calculation, weight and balance, and aeronautical charts. These products, supported by Navtech’s AS9100 and ISO:9001 certification, directly support millions of flights each year and help Navtech customers maximize efficiency, reduce costs, ensure compliance with complex national and international safety regulations, and effectively deliver their services.

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Optimized Systems and Solutions (OSyS)

W: www.o-sys.com T: +1 703 889 1300 E: osysaviation@o-sys.com

Company formed: 1999; Office Location: HQ Reston, VA; Houston, TX; San Diego, CA; Indianapolis, IN; Derby, UK; Bristol, UK; Gateshead, UK; Singapore; Qatar Name of Product Marketed • Fuel Management and Optimization; Emissions Trading Scheme MRV; Electronic Flight Bag (EFB); Asset and Equipment Health Monitoring; MRO Business and Parts Management; JetSCAN® Engine Health Monitoring Number of Modules.............. n/a Key Business/Software Areas • Fuel Management/Optimization • Emissions MRV • Electronic Flight Bag/EFB • Equipment Health Monitoring • MRO Business and Parts Management With a heritage of providing IT value-added services for the Rolls-Royce aftermarket, and delivering services commercially since 1999, Optimized Systems and Solutions (OSyS) has proven solutions for commercial aviation and defense. OSyS provides a complete range of best-in-class aviation services to enhance fleet performance and business operations. OSyS monitors more than 9,000 engines belonging to hundreds of civil aviation customers, helps meet compliance requirements with our products and services. Customers are able to increase availability of their critical assets, minimize risk and operational disruption, simplify data management to gain more value from IT investments, and improve operational efficiency.

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NVable Ltd

W: www.nvable.com T: +44 141 280 0050 E: contact@nvable.com

Company formed: 2005. Office Location: Glasgow, UK Name of Product Marketed • Appixo, Appixo ETL Number of Modules..................4 Key Business/Software Areas • Electronic Technical Log • Alternative Training & Qualification Programme (ATQP) • Station Operational Compliance (SOC) • Management Dashboards & Analysis NVable (pronounced “enviable”) was founded as a specialist software development consultancy creating bespoke solutions that allow customers to exploit the full value of their operational data. NVable now also offers its own software products. NVable recently launched Appixo – a platform that combines large scale data handling with a framework to support multiple mobile data acquisition applications.

The Appixo ETL is one such application, first launched in May 2012 with BA CityFlyer. NVable is now expanding its suite of aviation focussed applications. The growing list now includes ATQP and SOC Management. The data gathered from each application is fed into the Appixo analysis platform to feed the Management Dashboard & Analytics. This allows for real-time analysis of aircraft status, fuel burn/ uplift, defects, Out of Phase Maintenance etc.

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FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013| AIRCRAFT IT OPERATIONS | SOFTWARE DIRECTORY | 41

PACE GmbH

SITA

W: www.pace.de T: +4930293620 E: info@pace.de

W: www.SITA.aero E: info@SITA.aero

Company formed: 1995; Office Location: Berlin (Germany), Seattle (USA) Name of Product Marketed • Pacelab CI OPS, Live View, Trajectory Designer, EFB Data Recorder, Post Flight Server Number of Modules..................3 Key Business/Software Areas • Cost Index Operations • Fuel Efficiency Monitoring • Electronic Flight Bag • Takeoff and Landing Performance • Cabin Configuration

Name of Product Marketed • e-Aircraft Application Services, e-Aircraft AirportLink WiFi Service, Messaging Services Number of Modules................21 Key Business/Software Areas • e-Aircraft Application Services (for EFB) • e-Aircraft Connectivity Services • AIRCOM ACARS Services • AIRCOM Datalink Applications • AIRCOM Cockpit Voice

Working with leading OEMs, engine manufacturers and airlines for more than 15 years has enabled PACE to develop a range of innovative products that directly respond to the trends and challenges of the international aviation community. PACE closely collaborates with performance engineers, senior training captains, fuel conservation and operational efficiency managers and consultants to deliver real solutions for real people. PACE’s portfolio of flight operations solutions is designed to support airlines’ universal efforts to improve their daily operations, strategic planning and operational efficiency and to offset high fuel prices and environmental demands with a more effective fuel management.

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Sheorey Digital Systems Ltd.

W: www.sds.co.in

T: (+91-22) 2281 9198/ 2281 1086 E: contact@sds.co.in

Company formed: 1993; Office Location: India: Mumbai & Bangalore, Singapore besides Representative Offices in UAE, Saudi Arabia, UK/Europe and Latin America Name of Product Marketed • ARMS®V2 (Aviation Resource Management) Integrated InfoTech Suite Number of Modules.: 12 Sub-systems + 5 more under development Key Business/Software Areas • ARMS® Commercial Planning (CPSS) • ARMS® Flight Operations (FOSS) • ARMS® Crew Management (CMSS) • ARMS® Flight Planning & Dispatch (FPDS) • ARMS® Optimizers + ARMS® on the TAB (EFB/ETL)) Sheorey Digital Systems Ltd. (SDS) an ISO 9001:2008 & 27001:2005 software company, brings you ARMS®V2.

A current-generation, state-of-the-art Information Technology System which effectively addresses the extremely critical and cost-sensitive nature of Commercial Airlines/ Air Transport operations.

The ARMS® V2 InfoTech Suite is the only solution in the industry capable of seamlessly integrating all of the functional and operational areas of an Airline or Air Transport operator with a unified database; i.e. a single repository of data with which all ARMS® modules interact.

ARMS® V2 increases process efficiencies and reduces costs while assuring strict Statutory Compliance and uncompromising Safety.

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Company formed: 1949; Office Location: Head Office: Geneva, Switzerland. Main Regional Offices in: Rio De Janiero, Brazil; Beirut, Lebanon; Atlanta, USA; Singapore; Rome, Italy .

SITA is the world’s leading specialist in air transport communications and IT solutions. We deliver and manage business solutions for airline, airport, GDS, government and other customers over the world’s most extensive network, which forms the communications backbone of the global air transport industry. We innovate collaboratively with the air transport industry, and the industry itself drives the company’s portfolio and strategic direction. We are the only IT and communications company to run annual, industry-renowned IT surveys for airlines, airports and passenger self-service. Our portfolio includes managed global communications, infrastructure and outsourcing services, as well as services for airline commercial management, passenger operations, flight operations, aircraft operations, air-to-ground communications, airport management and operations, baggage operations, transportation security and border management, cargo operations and more. In addition, we sponsor .aero, the top-level internet domain reserved exclusively for aviation. We are one of world’s most international companies. Our global reach is based on local presence, with services for over 550 air transport industry members and 3,200 customers in over 200 countries and territories. Set up in 1949 with 11 member airlines, today we employ people of more than 140 nationalities, speaking over 70 different languages. SITA had consolidated revenues of US $1.49 billion in 2010.

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Smart4Aviation

W: www.smart4aviation.aero T: +31 20 654 1824 E: info@smart4aviation.aero

Company formed: 2009; Office Location: Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Kraków and Gdansk, Poland; New Delhi, India

Name of Product Marketed • Smart BRIEF, Smart BRIEF CABIN, Smart NOTAM MANAGER, Smart FUELING, Smart VIEW, Smart MET, Smart OPS, Smart DOC, Smart EFF, Smart EFB, Smart eFORMS, Smart PERFORMANCE, Smart ALERT, Smart COMM, Smart VIEW+, Smart ULD MANAGER, Smart LOAD, Smart HUB, Smart ONTIME, Smart FUEL MANAGER, Smart MISSION MANAGER Number of Modules................21 Key Business/Software Areas • Smart BRIEF • Smart COMM • Smart FUEL MANAGER • Smart EFB • Smart PERFORMANCE Smart4Aviation was founded to provide web based products and services to optimize, simplify and improve airline operations. The Smart4Aviation’s goal is high quality, cost-effective solutions backed up with 24/365 support service.

It offers 21 modules which are interoperable, compatible and can be freely composed into the one system as well as software developed on demand, which are used with success by pilots, crew, dispatchers, ground ops and many different departments. The modules work as basic building blocks that can be used to build the system that will meet exactly customer’s requirements, that are tailored to the customer’s needs.

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T&A Systeme GmbH

W: www.logipad.aero T: +49 23 24 92580 E: info@logipad.aero

Company formed: 1994; Office Location: Hattingen, Germany

Name of Product Marketed • Logipad Number of Modules..................6 Key Business/Software Areas • iPad EFB Management • Class-I EFB • Class-II EFB • Logipad for Cabin • Logipad for Maintenance T&A SYSTEME GmbH is an IT-Service & solution provider, founded in 1994 and headquartered in Hattingen, Germany. The company has around 60 employees and focuses on national and international customers that reach up to 10000 devices. We have solid international experiences with customers of global reputation. In addition to consulting services, we are a strategic partner for development of scalable future proven IT-solutions. With Logipad T&A provides a global EFB Management solution, to handle and support any data on Class-I, Class-II and iPad Devices with one standardized ground process.

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THALES

W: www.thalesgroup.com/aerospace T: +33 (0)5 6119 65 00 E: topwings@thalesgroup.com Company formed: 1968; Office Location: Toulouse, France Name of Product Marketed • TopWings Number of Modules..................1 Key Business/Software Areas • EFB hardware • EFB software solution • Ground Operations • EFB Project guidance • Scalable end-to-end solution An integrator to design, customize and support your EFB solution.

TopWings® is an innovative and unique solution that provides a tailored answer to your needs for Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) implementation. Thales’s one-stop solution is a global EFB offering for operators, comprising Hardware and Applications for cockpit and cabin. It also provides Data Management and Ground Applications with a wide range of services. With TopWings, operators obtain significant operational savings and quick return on investment. Best in class, TopWings is a customisable, modular solution that helps key decision makers master complexity and make timely decisions for better outcomes.

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