Start with standards

Standards can serve as an enabler. The fielding of avionics for operation in regulated airspace involves the development of a harmonized approach - a task fulfilled by standards. International standards that are recognized and implemented worldwide provide the basis for common use. Standards provide the foundation upon which functions such as aircraft integration, certification, human factors and procedure development can rest. Ultimately, the capability and efficiency of airspace operations fall within the limitations set by the technology and its standards. Today there is a unique opportunity to harmonize the efforts of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) with RTCA and Eurocae. Further, non-regulatory bodies such as AEEC, ATA, and SAE may be able to contribute. These commercial-based organizations share an approach of open-minded participation in a set of technical forums necessary to ensure that the best technologies are selected for implementation and that the details of their design are optimum through consensus-driven processes. However, their perspectives differ, leading, on occasion, to differing conclusions. In 2006 ICAO announced that it saw a need for an adjustment in its relationship with the other standards bodies. The time has come to embrace that opportunity. Once the standards are in place, an initiative is needed to bring stakeholders together to put the schedules for Air Traffic Services on track with fielding of the avionics - a win-win for all. Participation by all stakeholders in coordinating forums is required to ensure that the industry moves forward together to deliver the benefits of unified fitment of aircraft and ground systems: safe and efficient air travel to the public.