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Lately, a number of BNSF Railway Co. engineers have been noticing a more comfortable and functional cab stand as they climb aboard a new AC locomotive.

During the past several years, BNSF’s cab committee — comprising representatives from the railroad, United Transportation Union, and Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen division of the Teamsters Rail Conference — helped redesign cab stands to resemble an airline pilot’s workstation. The stands feature control panels providing easier access to levers, controls, screens and gauges; more legroom; and a larger range of vision for reverse moves.

GE Transportation-Rail recently delivered seven AC locomotives featuring the new stand design; the company will deliver 90 more units by year’s end. Next year, all AC and DC units purchased by BNSF will feature the new stand, which currently is installed on locomotives used in coal service.

“The [old] desk style offered many advantages, however we’ve realized over time that there is a better way to arrange the control stand,” said John Quilty, BNSF assistant vice president of operating practices, in a prepared statement.