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Southwest Airlines is adding cockpit alerts on all 700 of its Boeing 737s to help prevent runway incidents
Business Insider· 2025-06-16 13:13
Core Viewpoint - Southwest Airlines is implementing advanced cockpit alert systems across its Boeing 737 fleet to enhance safety and prevent runway errors, reflecting a commitment to pilot and passenger safety [1][4][9] Group 1: Technology Implementation - The airline has equipped over 700 aircraft with SmartRunway and SmartLanding software developed by Honeywell Aerospace Technologies [1] - The systems provide real-time visual and audio alerts during critical phases of flight, including taxi, takeoff, and landing [2] - The technology builds on Honeywell's Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System, which was previously installed on Southwest's aircraft [2] Group 2: Safety Concerns - The new system aims to prevent frequent and potentially catastrophic errors at US airports, highlighted by a near-collision incident in February involving a Southwest jet [3] - Rising air traffic and a series of high-profile close calls have increased interest in the alert system among airlines [7] Group 3: Industry Adoption - While the technology is certified for various Airbus and Boeing aircraft, many airlines have not activated it despite its availability [5][6] - Airlines have the option to activate the technology, which incurs costs but is not mandated [6] - Some airlines, like Alaska Airlines, have adopted the system, while others rely on manufacturer-specific tools [9] Group 4: Regulatory Environment - The decision to implement the system aligns with renewed regulatory focus on runway safety, with an FAA advisory panel recommending mandatory cockpit alert systems for newly built aircraft [8]
HONEYWELL RUNWAY SAFETY TECHNOLOGY SELECTED BY SOUTHWEST AIRLINES FOR FLEETWIDE INSTALLATION
Prnewswire· 2025-06-16 08:00
Core Insights - Honeywell announced that Southwest Airlines is activating its entire Boeing 737 fleet with SmartRunway and SmartLanding software to enhance runway safety [1][2] - The SmartRunway and SmartLanding solutions improve flight crew situational awareness during critical phases of flight, providing alerts for speed, altitude, and runway direction [2][3] - Honeywell's next-generation runway safety technology, Surface Alerts (SURF-A), is under testing and expected to be certified in 2026, further enhancing pilot situational awareness [3] Company and Industry Developments - The partnership between Honeywell and Southwest Airlines is strengthened through the implementation of SmartRunway and SmartLanding, continuing a long-standing collaboration [4] - Southwest Airlines emphasizes safety as a core value, with the new software aimed at providing enhanced situational awareness for pilots [5] - Honeywell Aerospace Technologies offers a wide range of products and services across various aircraft and systems, contributing to safer and more efficient aviation [5][6]