Case Study: ExpressJet Airlines achieves real-time pilot data and improved safety with Microsoft Azure

Airline puts real-time data in hands of pilots with Surface devices running Windows 10

ExpressJet Airlines, a U.S.-based regional carrier with 8,500 employees operating 308 regional jets and about 1,500 daily flights, needed to improve safety and operational efficiency by getting timely flight and weather data into pilots’ hands. Before the change, pilots carried 40–50 lb paper flight bags and spent 1–3 hours locating and updating charts, while weather information could be up to 30 minutes old by the time it was used.

ExpressJet deployed Microsoft Surface 3 devices running Windows 10 as electronic flight bags, loading navigation charts, manuals, weather, mapping tools, and using the devices for communication and training. The result: near real-time weather and flight data at the flight deck, faster preflight preparation, elimination of heavy paper bags, improved situational awareness and safety, and higher pilot morale and connectivity for remote employees.

ExpressJet Airlines

Greg Wooley

Vice President of Flight Operations