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By Harriette Halepis

Ever since the GPS tracker was invented, many people around the globe have been asking the same question: why aren’t airlines using GPS tracking in lieu of radar? Aviation officials around the globe are finally beginning to see the GPS tracking light.

GPS & Aviation

Many different commercial airlines have begun to make the transition from radar to GPS. Airline officials believe that this change will result in fewer delays, fewer lost airplanes, and an overall control over aircraft that wasn’t possible before.

Throughout the past couple of years, far too many airplanes have, literally, disappeared from radar view resulting in crashes. Accidents of this type are frequently a result of an aging radar system. In fact, many airline pilots must follow flight courses that are not efficient solely to pass by a radar tower. This results in longer flight times, more fuel consumption, and, ultimately, higher ticket prices.

Even though most airlines make an effort to pass by radar towers, many airlines completely lose touch with air traffic controllers while in-flight. Needless to say, this lack of communication is dangerous for all airline passengers.

With the help of GPS tracking, air traffic controllers will be able to keep tabs on airplanes – no matter where planes may fly. This will result in quicker flight times for all airlines that adopt GPS tracking technology.

The FAA estimates that most commercial airlines will have adopted GPS tracking technology within the next decade. Thus far, many different airlines have already begun to change the way that their planes are tracked.