FAA expands AI advice to manage air traffic congestion across entire US airspace
Airlines praised the AI tool, but the air traffic controllers’ union wasn’t involved.
TL;DR
- The FAA is deploying its AI-driven SMART system nationwide to assist air traffic controllers.
- The system aims to reduce flight delays and fuel consumption by predicting air traffic patterns and recommending optimal routes.
- Airline executives have expressed support for the expanded use of the SMART system.
- The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) claims it was not consulted or involved in the design, testing, or implementation of the SMART system.
- The FAA states that the SMART system provides recommendations and does not replace human controllers, who can choose to accept or reject its advice.
- The system has been tested in the Washington, DC airspace and is being expanded to all 22 air traffic control centers across the country.