X

Boeing launches airplane maintenance iPad apps

The new apps, which Boeing will demonstrate this week in Europe, should help airline mechanics get quick access to crucial information about parts, maintenance records, and more.

New_CNET_profile_picture.jpg
New_CNET_profile_picture.jpg
Daniel Terdiman Former Senior Writer / News
Daniel Terdiman is a senior writer at CNET News covering Twitter, Net culture, and everything in between.
See full bio
Daniel Terdiman
The first Boeing 787 Dreamliner takes off on its initial flight in 2009. Daniel Terdiman/CNET

Boeing announced this morning that it has launched a suite of iPad apps that gives airline mechanics quick access to a wide range of essential maintenance information.

The aviation giant, which makes planes like the 747, 787 Dreamliner, 777, and 737, said that maintenance technicians will be able to use the apps for instant access to airplane manuals, part numbers and inventory, maintenance history, and more. The company said that will help the airlines resolve mechanical issues faster, leading to reduced flight delays and lower costs. It plans on demonstrating the apps at an aviation industry event in London this week.

Boeing said it developed the app with the cooperation of several airlines for more than a year, seeking an ideal user interface and maximum ease of use for technicians.

Airlines are increasingly using iPads in the cockpit to give easy access to flight manuals, saving them money and flying weight. Alaska Airlines

Apple's tablet has become popular with airlines, including aboard aircraft, where pilots can access voluminous flight manuals with a few taps. Airlines like American, United, and Alaska have said the ability to use iPads for this purpose have cut down on the use of large amounts of paper, saving money, and reducing planes' flying weight.