Ramifications of the recent FAA rule for windshear systems on the development of forward-looking systems

The recent Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rule requiring windshear systems with flight guidance may have severe ramifications for the development of infrared and other forward-looking systems. The industry needs to have and can have a more cost effective option through the use of a forward-looking system with a reactive backup instead of a reactive system with flight guidance. However, because of the short time for compliance with the new FAA rule, it is possible that existing transport aircraft will be in full compliance before a comprehensive investigation of all forward-looking systems can be completed. If this occurs, it is possible that the market for forward-looking systems will be severely reduced, thereby eliminating the economic incentive to develop these much needed systems. Thus, to assure that this option is available for the airlines, it beehoves the industry to immediately support an in-service evaluation of all available forward-looking systems.