Originally Posted by
Gunfighter
Let's look at the iPad as a shipset alternative, rather than our final EFB solution. Here are a few points to consider.
-The cost savings of electronic updates vs. manual updates of the shipsets should offset the initial capital outlay. Doing a basic NPV analysis would only take a few minutes.
-The shipsets are AC specific, requiring multiple versions. The iPad could cover ALL airports and therefore be universal to the entire fleet.
-A searchable pdf on an iPad provides faster reference to key data than a shipset does.
-The iPad saves weight compared to a shipset.
-And Finally, I want Delta to buy me an iPad.
I jumpseat on almost every airline. I have yet to see a IFB in use and working. The closest I have seen is USAIR has about 20 IFB's installed on their A320's however they have not turned the power on yet and they are just decorations at the moment. There is a lot more involved then most people realize. Some of the basic FAA guidelines include dual power supplies, direct sunlight viewable. Crashworthy mounting system ect..... The IPAD fails all 3 of the above.
The other issue is Jepps is working on their own IFB. They are owned by Boeing. They are pushing that product not other options. Updates are not cheaper on EFB's then paper. Jepps charges the same. Delta is going to EFB's however in about 2 years they are going to be far more capable then today. Delta wants a EFB that can interface with both maintenance and dispatch. They are going with shipsets until the product is available.