Technology

NextGen Technology Enables Fastest, Safest Toy Delivery

Federal Aviation Administration safety inspectors at the North Pole certified Santa One, the reindeer-powered sleigh piloted by Santa Claus, prior to its 2010 C...

Federal News Radio Custom Media@WTOPWFEDcustom

December 27, 2010 11:20 am

< a min read

Federal Aviation Administration safety inspectors at the North Pole certified Santa One, the reindeer-powered sleigh piloted by Santa Claus, prior to its 2010 Christmas Eve delivery mission.

Santa One – they report – is outfitted with new satellite-based NextGen technology, that allows Santa to deliver more toys to more children with improved safety and efficiency.

Rudolph’s nose has been outfitted with avionics that can broadcast Santa One’s position to air traffic controllers around the world with improved accuracy.

FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt says Santa’s cockpit display is improved to help improve his situational awareness.

Even as energy-efficient as the reindeer-powered sleigh already is, officials say NextGen technologies have further reduced Santa One’s carbon hoofprint. Shorter, faster routings mean the reindeer consume less hay.