Adrian is Auckland bureau chief for Aviation Week, based in New Zealand. He covers commercial aviation in the Asia-Pacific region.
Adrian was previously based in Aviation Week’s Washington office for nine years, writing for a range of the group’s publications and covering many aspects of the commercial aviation industry. He has won Australasian and international awards for his aviation writing.
Prior to joining Aviation Week in 2002, Adrian covered aviation industry and policy issues for two other publishing companies in Washington. He has also worked for newspapers in Texas and New Zealand, covering a wide range of topics. Adrian graduated from Auckland University with a degree in history and English in 1992.
FAA has completed work on the first of its Beech 300 flight inspection aircraft to receive an avionics upgrade, with 17 others to follow. The aircraft -- which are used to test navigation signals -- will receive an improved avionics package designed by Rockwell Collins. The remainder of the fleet will be upgraded over the next three years. As well as the improved avionics, the aircraft's lifespan will be extended.
In addition to its short-term action plan to reduce runway incursions, FAA is also looking to speed up the introduction of new technology that it believes can help improve runway safety. The agency is looking at existing programs, such as airport surface detection equipment, model X (ASDE-X) and similar technology known as low-cost surface surveillance systems (LCSS), both of which are expected to improve controller situational awareness. In addition, FAA is considering how best to introduce runway status lights at U.S. airports.
FAA is today scheduled to hold a summit meeting with aviation leaders -- called by Administrator Marion Blakey -- to brainstorm short-term remedies for reducing runway incursions.
