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AI Takes Flight: $875M Program to Revolutionize Air Traffic Control
18 Sep
Summary
- FAA is implementing an $875 million AI software program.
- The software, named Smart, will streamline air traffic operations.
- It will initially roll out in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is introducing an $875 million artificial intelligence software program to address an ongoing air traffic control shortage. This initiative aims to enhance the management of air traffic operations and improve flight route safety.
The new cloud-based platform, called Smart (Strategic Management of Airspace, Routes and Trajectories), uses AI to analyze airline schedules, weather patterns, airport capacity, and airspace conditions. Its core function is to predict traffic flows and proactively identify potential conflicts before they arise, thereby streamlining operations.
Developed by Air Space Intelligence, the Smart program is set to be implemented over a 12-year period. The initial rollout will focus on the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, with subsequent expansion planned for other regions across the country. This technological investment complements the FAA's broader efforts to modernize aging air traffic systems and recruit new staff to alleviate longstanding staffing shortages.
