On global representation of lagrangian distributions and solutions of hyperbolic equations

In this paper we develop a new approach to the theory of Fourier integral operators. It allows us to represent the Schwartz kernel of a Fourier integral operator by one oscillatory integral with a complex phase function. We consider Fourier integral operators associated with canonical transformations, having in mind applications to hyperbolic equations. As a by-product we obtain yet another formula for the Maslov index. © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.