As we all know, the aviation industry is a vast and complex system that requires constant innovation and improvement in order to ensure efficiency and safety for all involved. One tragic example of this need for advancement is the disappearance of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 in 2014.
Despite exhaustive search efforts and investigations, the fate of the plane and its passengers remains a mystery to this day. However, the incident has sparked a vital conversation about the importance of advanced airplane tracking systems and how they could potentially prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Currently, most commercial airplanes are equipped with Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) technology, which transmits the plane’s location, speed, and altitude to air traffic control. However, this system relies on the plane’s transponder, a device that sends out the signal, to be functioning properly. In the case of MH370, it is believed that the transponder was manually shut off, allowing the plane to fly undetected.
There have been calls for the implementation of real-time tracking technology that would not rely on the transponder. One such system is the Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Contract (ADS-C), which uses satellite communication to track the plane’s location. This system would provide a redundant method of tracking and would allow for planes to be located even if the transponder is not functioning.
Furthermore, another advanced tracking system that has been proposed is the use of space-based tracking. This system would use a network of satellites to continuously track the plane’s location, providing a comprehensive view of the plane’s movements at all times. This would allow for immediate identification of any deviation from the plane’s planned flight path and would greatly increase the chances of locating a missing plane.
It is important to note that these advanced tracking systems come with a cost, both financially and in terms of privacy concerns. However, when weighed against the potential loss of human lives and the unknown fate of a missing plane, the benefits outweigh the costs.
In conclusion, the disappearance of MH370 serves as a tragic reminder of the need for constant innovation and improvement in the aviation industry. The implementation of advanced tracking systems, such as ADS-C and space-based tracking, would greatly increase the chances of locating a missing plane and preventing similar occurrences in the future.
