MDA signs U.S. deal to optimize Air Force flight paths

RICHMOND, B.C.—MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd. (MDA), a B.C.-based communications and information company, has signed a US$4.04 million contract with the U.S Air Force (USAF) to enhance the flight path safety system that aides the design of airport approach and departure flight paths.

MDA currently operates under an Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) agreement with USAF, which includes options for extending operational support and system enhancements.

Originally announced in February 2012, MDA has signed about US$8.9 million in contracts under the IDIQ agreement.

The original flight path safety system developed by MDA for USAF has been deployed worldwide since 2004, focused on the design of flight paths for aircraft fitted with ground-based navigation equipment. The enhancements under this contract will provide greater capability in the support of aircraft fitted with both ground-based and satellite-based navigation equipment.