US Airways buys system to track planes on the ground

US Airways Group Inc. said it purchased technology from defense and security company Saab Sensis Corp. of East Syracuse, N.Y., to track planes on the ground at the carrier's hubs in Philadelphia, Charlotte, N.C., and Phoenix. Financial details were not disclosed. The software shows a map of the airfield on a screen and provides the airline with real-time visibility of where planes are.

Until now, ground operations have relied on binoculars and radios to know the location and status of flights at gates, ramps areas and on runways, said Saab Sensis spokesman Rob Conrad. This system should help reduce delays and better manage arrivals and departures by "giving us real-time insight into our ground operations," said US Airways chief operating officer Robert Isom.

"The bird's-eye view of the airport surface helps our team reduce tarmac delays, ensure more on-time arrivals and departures, and more effectively manage operations during inclement weather, which will result in a better experience for customers," Isom said.

Saab Sensis says the technology also can minimize missed flight connections and delayed bags because airline personnel and bag carts can get to planes sooner.

   - Linda Loyd