THE NEW FLIGHT BAG: iPads could replace conventional navigation systems such as paper charts

American Airlines is running a test programme for a navigation system based on Apple’s iPad. Part of the thinking behind the plan, sources say, is to do away with those bulky, heavy flight bags that pilots are so fond of and save the airline a pile of cash – as much as $1.2m a year.

According to tech blog www.ubergizmo.com, the iPad application — approved by the Federal Aviation Administration — will provide the flight-deck crew with all the navigational information that they need. Tests are ongoing.

If ditching pilots’ flight bags could generate such savings, imagine how much money American and other carriers would save if they did what no-frills haulers like Ryanair do and charge passengers stiff fees for check-in baggage? Of course, a policy like that doesn’t make you any friends, especially among people who have no choice but to fly with plenty of bags – just ask any family.

The airline is also supplying 6 000 Samsung tablets as its in-flight entertainment system on some transcontinental flights in US and also on certain routes to South America. The tablets will be available for First Class passengers only. All very good, but as some commentators have noted, if you’re flying First Class, you probably already have your own tablet.

Still, it’s the way to go. Then when everybody owns tablets, the airlines can get shot of their heavy in-flight entertainment systems altogether.

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