BA Pilots Switch to iPads

British Airways is equipping its 3,600 pilots with iPads to further improve customer service and operational efficiency levels. The move, which follows the airline’s rollout of iPads across its cabin crew and ground operations teams, is part of the company’s £5bn investment in new products and technology. By having access to additional real-time operational data, shared with ground colleagues, pilots will be able to plan the flight more efficiently, using the most accurate information available pre-departure. This means flight crew can provide customers with faster and more accurate flight information. With the latest operational updates, customers will be better informed and able to make plans if their flight time has changed for any reason. Pilots will also be able to use historic and current data, supplied by the customer, to provide an even more personalised service during the flight.

iPads for Air France Pilots

 Air France has started to equip its 4,100 pilots with iPads, which they will use outside the cockpit instead of their laptops. Boeing 777 pilots started receiving these iPads back in June, and the roll-out should be completed by mid-2013. With the iPad, pilots have access to an electronic version of all their personal aircraft documentation, of which they previously had a paper version at home.
They will be able to download the manuals of their choice anywhere in the world and be automatically informed of their updates. Pilots will also be able to access airport maps. These dedicated applications will be available for download at the ‘Pilot Store’ specially developed by Air France.
 The use of iPads will facilitate communication processes by giving pilots the ability to electronically draft and dispatch regular reports, such as the Air Safety Report, Captain’s Report and Security Report, at the end of the flight. Pilots will also be able to access the Air France intranet website for specific services and to send and receive emails. Beginning 2013, Air France pilots will also be able to use the iPad to complete training courses, review aircraft systems and complete self-service briefings.
 Air France is also working towards the implementation of Electronic Flight Bags in the cockpit for its pilots, which will lead to greater convenience and efficiency while reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.