UPS has announced it will retrofit much of its jet fleet with a computerized display system thatwill improve safety in the air and on the ground while reducing fuel use and making the pilot’s job
easier. The retrofit program is believed to be the first of its type attempted by any airline,cargo or passenger, “and basically reflects our belief that this technology is ready and should beapplied to jets now in service,” said Bob Lekites, vice president, UPS Airline and InternationalOperations.The retrofit program, which will begin with 107 B-757 and B-767 aircraft in the UPS fleet, willequip each plane with a Class III Display Device, commonly referred to as a Class III ElectronicFlight Bag, manufactured by the Boeing Co. Such advanced electronic systems today are found only onselected business jets and a small number of new passenger airliners. Eight new 747-400 aircraftrecently ordered by UPS will be built from scratch with the system.
The Class III Display Device is essentially an information system with two independent computerhard drives coupled to a specially constructed video display. In the case of the UPS Airlines, theClass III Display Device, states UPS, actually becomes even more capable than those systems goinginto the newest jets because UPS already has installed a safety system known as ADS-B – orAutomatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast – in all of its 757 and 767 aircraft.
“We are excited to see UPS demonstrating the flexibility of our Class III Display Device byusing proven technology for innovative and ground-breaking applications,” said Lou Mancini, vicepresident and general manager of Boeing Commercial Aviation Services. “UPS is a model customer forthe device and its reputation as a leader in both technology and financial rigor represents astrong stamp of approval.”
