The weight-and-balance data gets computed with a feed of passenger from the gate. Once calculated, it gets transmitted to the cockpit. This is much safer than having pilots do manual data entry and using the onboard computer to come up with the numbers. This may seem like just paperwork for paperworks sake but incorrect numbers will tell the pilots the wrong takeoff speeds which can lead to a tail strike or worse.
Originally Posted by
TheMoose
Figures. As long as Delta continues to assume ATL is the center of the world, they will have these kinds of issues like always requiring the pilots to "call home" rather than just give them the tools they need to finish the job on the spot.
The ATL-centric attitude extends far beyond what is essentially a domestic FF program with next to no focus on any international markets (still waiting for global FF redemption charts, you know the same ones NW had for years but were taken down and not replaced once the merger happened).
Well, Atlanta is where Delta's operations control center is located. Not sure where else it would come from.