SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR OPTIMIZATION OF AIRCRAFT FUEL ECONOMY IN REAL-TIME

A system and method for the real-time optimization of aircraft fuel economy is disclosed. Sensors are provided to monitor in-flight performance characteristics, to monitor the status of aircraft control elements during flight, to monitor fuel consumption, and to identify aircraft position information during flight. A processor is coupled to receive information from the sensors. During flight, the processor calculates a current performance level by entering the received information into a predetermined flight model. The processor then determines, based on a comparison of the calculated current performance level with a predetermined expected performance level, a current level of fuel efficiency. Next, the processor determines any parameter changes for improving fuel efficiency. Finally, the processor causes the determined parameter changes to be displayed on a flight deck display. The flight crew may then selectively implement one or more of the determined parameter changes via the flight deck display.