Re:A little perspective (Score 1)

This is not a "Windows vs Linux" thing. These are highly specialized data networks designed specifically for aircraft. The typical running life of a big jet is some 40 years or more - the idea of a consumer O/S such as Windows (or even Linux) being suitable for such a situation is simply stupid. Everything is coded in firmware, micro-processor based, with a likelyhood of actually crashing accidentally being somewhat less likely than getting struck by lightning on a sunny day while sitting in the cellar of your 4-story house.

A current commercial widebody from the same company uses a Windows based network for some of its onboard cabin systems and either Unix or Linux for other systems closely related to vital aircraft functions. The operating systems might be modified, but the underlying code is still there. As for "everything is coded in firmware", well, yes it is, but as with all firmware, it has to be loaded and updated from time to time. Many complex Line Replaceable Units on a modern aircraft require software load on install, sometimes by crossloading from another identical onboard unit already fitted, or from a disc.