Banyan To Test New Safety System

Fort Lauderdale, Fla.-based FBO Banyan Air Service will be the launch customer for a new ground accident avoidance system. RampTrack, by Wingspan Systems, will help prevent ramp and hangar accidents by tracking aircraft on the ground and issuing a warning if they are at risk of striking a building, another aircraft, vehicle or person. Using redundant sensors, intelligent software and visual as well as aural alarms, the system reduces the chance of hangar rash due to contact with toolboxes or ground tugs while aircraft are being moved or taxiing. According to the manufacturer, the system uses intelligent video input to identify the aircraft and potential threats, and it can help save money by reducing the number of employees required to reposition aircraft safely. The system will begin engineering field testing at Banyan this month.