Automation for fun and profit
Hmmm,
All this automation makes my bank accounts itch. VR on its way?
I saw, in Paris in '95, a demo system that integrated Mode S datalink and an ATC system to a level significantly above the level in this trial.
The controller was able, by use of a drag and drop interface, to amend the route of the aircraft. Basically they pulled a rubber band set-up across the screen. Once they were happy the validated the instruction which was then automatically uplinked the amended route to the aircraft FMC via Mode S datalink. The pilot simply had to execute the instruction and the aircraft flew the new route.
I see this as a significant improvement. If we follow the Virgin cabin service model, the cabin services manager will be able to press the button (cheaper than automating it) in their copious spare time. Pretty soon we'll be able to despatch all those pesky pilots and still vector the aircraft all over the sky. Mind you, it won't be so much fun with no-one to complain.