[ginkgotree]

General aviation pilot here. I fly a bonanza in the flight levels regularly. There are plenty more data sources than just PIREPS, even in general aviation. Foreflight on an iPad, combined with and ADS-B receiver and a SirrusXM WX subscription are all in active use in my little 40 year old airplane. I say this as an avid Delta frequent flyer, but I highly doubt Delta's competitors are only using PIREPS to navigate turbulence.

[bronco21016]

You certainly may be correct that Delta’s competitors may be using additional or different sources. However, there definitely is not any access to SiriusXM WX or ADS-B weather onboard FAR 121 aircraft. Many airlines are just now getting around to ADS-B out for compliance. When I worked for one of the regional airlines we had just been approved for EFBs (iPads) in 2017. Point is simply that GA is typically significantly further ahead in a lot of technologies these days because 121 air travel has become so incredibly safe that the FAA is very careful and methodical in approving new technology use. That costs money and it’s only been the last 3-4 years or so that airlines have had money to spend.

[ginkgotree]

Great point. It really does amaze me that I likely use tools like precision GPS approaches and live access to weather data more than the typical part 121 airliner. However, I do think the FAA's strategy to slowly and methodically make changes to part 121 is valid given the safety record you cite.

It does excite me to see these things come to GA though. If you chose to use them properly, tools like ADS-B in and inflight weather at least gives you the option of making more informed safety decisions. But I still see too many young CFIs teaching "buttonolgy" before good old stick and rudder. Priorities should still be what is in the Airplane Flying Handbook: 1. Aviate, 2. Navigate, 3. Communicate. Safety, even with all this tech, still comes down to sound aeronautical decision making and cockpit management.

[captn3m0]

Dumb question, but what does 121 mean in this context?

[bronco21016]

14 CFR FAR 121 is the FAA regulations governing scheduled air carriers in the United States.

[base698]

Little airplane, PSSSSH--you try to put 4 people in Mooney.

[ginkgotree]

Barn doors!! Love em. But you got a few knots on me