Winnipeg International Airport is the largest Canadian airport to test a new computer application that could dramatically improve the way runway conditions are communicated with pilots and airlines.

Team Eagle Ltd. is working with Nav Canada and the local authority to produce and transmit electronic field condition reports more quickly than the current system can.

The system uses GPS technology in its “WinterOps” platform.

“This is an important move forward for airport safety as the digital NOTAMJ means more timely information sharing with Nav Canada, airports and airlines,” said Nav Canada project manager Olivier Meier.

“Better decisions can be made as to how best route aircraft and utilize airspace.”

The new software will be tested alongside the current system at James Armstrong Richardson International until April.

If it works, the hope is to roll it out to all Canadian airports in time for next winter.