Honeywell has announced that Southwest Airlines is activating SmartRunway and SmartLanding software across its entire Boeing 737 fleet. The technology, which operates through the Honeywell Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS) already installed on Southwest aircraft, aims to improve runway safety. Over 700 aircraft have been activated with the system so far.
The SmartRunway and SmartLanding systems are designed to enhance pilot awareness during taxi, take-off, and landing by providing both aural and visual alerts. These alerts help pilots maintain stabilized approaches and warn them if they are moving too quickly, flying at an unsafe altitude, or heading toward the wrong runway. The software is certified for use on most Airbus and Boeing aircraft as well as several business aviation platforms.
Jim Currier, president and CEO of Honeywell Aerospace Technologies, stated: “Today’s pilots face increasing challenges including unpredictable weather and dense traffic in limited airspace, forcing them to make split-second decisions during takeoff and landing. Fortunately, as the challenges evolve, so does the technology that provides the information they need in real time. Southwest is continuing to put pilots and passengers first by investing in SmartRunway and SmartLanding software across its fleet.”
Honeywell also reported progress on its next-generation runway safety solution called Surface Alerts (SURF-A). This new cockpit alerting software uses GPS data, Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast equipment, and analytics to provide direct warnings of potential runway traffic. SURF-A is currently being tested with plans for certification on commercial aircraft in 2026 pending regulatory approval.
Southwest Airlines has a history of working with Honeywell on flight-deck technologies. In 2015, it selected Honeywell systems for its order of 737 MAX airliners in addition to equipping earlier models with Honeywell avionics. The airline was also first to implement Honeywell’s Integrated Multi-Mode Receiver technology.
Andrew Watterson, chief operating officer at Southwest Airlines, commented: “Safety is at the heart of everything we do at Southwest. Honeywell’s SmartRunway and SmartLanding software will provide our pilots with enhanced situational awareness to ensure the highest level of safety while operating on runways throughout the network.”
Honeywell Aerospace Technologies supplies products found on nearly all commercial, defense, and space aircraft worldwide. Its business unit develops engines, cockpit electronics, connectivity systems, mechanical components, power systems and other solutions aimed at making aviation safer and more efficient.
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