2 chapters across the catalog
Aviation Communication, Half-Duplex Systems, and FAA Unions
A technical discussion on aviation communication systems explores the merits of half-duplex analog radio versus digital full-duplex alternatives. An anonymous air traffic controller claims that union leadership and middle management are the primary obstacles to FAA modernization.
Blackhawk Helicopter Crash, NTSB Preliminary Report
The NTSB released a preliminary report on the collision between a military Blackhawk helicopter and a regional jet. The investigation suggests that a 0.8-second microphone key-up by the helicopter crew may have "stepped on" a critical tower transmission. The hosts debate the technical limitations of legacy half-duplex radio systems in aviation and the risks of conducting military training exercises near busy commercial airports.
