Feedback Model of Air Transportation System Change: Implementation Challenges for Aviation Information Systems

The U.S. air transportation system faces substantial challenges in implementing new aviation information systems to meet future demand. These challenges need to be understood and addressed in order to successfully meet future system needs. This paper uses a feedback model to describe the processes by which system change occurs. In addition, key issues in the dynamics of system change, with particular emphasis on stakeholder cost-benefit dynamics, and safety approval processes are identified. Overcoming stakeholder barriers and ensuring efficient safety approval and certification process are key enablers to the successful implementation of aviation information systems into the air transportation system. The implementation of automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast and integration of unmanned aircraft systems into the air transportation system are discussed as examples of current technology-dependent system changes.