The United States Federal Aviation Administration has found that use of the iPad has lowered costs and improved efficiency. The authority has decided to expand the use of Apple’s best-selling device, and also create its own app store containing aviation-specific software.
AppleInsiderAbout 1,100 FAA employees are currently using iPads, but that will “broadly expand” in the near future. That’s because the FAA has found that tablets are “particularly useful” for employees like mechanics and lawyers at the administration.
“The FAA currently allows employees to use iPads to read and send e-mail or documents, and does not allow the devices to be used to access FAA networks. But that is scheduled to change,” the report said.
“The FAA’s manager of Architecture and Applied Technology said that by 2014, the FAA plans to allow workers the choice to replace laptops with iPads.”
The administration hopes to build more applications to suit their specific needs. Along with creating its own app store, the FAA also hopes to expand use of the iPad to trainers and students.
In July of 2011, the FAA approved use of the iPad as an electronic flight bag. Replacing cumbersome 40-pound paper manuals with just one touchscreen device.
In December, American Airlines began using the iPad in all phases of flight. It has been used to replace traditional paper charts.
