The Federal Aviation Administration has faced ongoing challenges managing a nationwide air traffic control shortage. While the causes of this deficit are multifaceted, the agency has signaled a commitment to seeking innovative solutions to address the issue.
A potential solution involves an $875 million AI software program designed to assist air traffic controllers in optimizing workflows and navigating flight routes with greater safety.
According to The Wall Street Journal, the FAA plans to introduce "Smart," an automated software program standing for Strategic Management of Airspace, Routes and Trajectories, aimed at streamlining air traffic operations.
A program overview describes Smart as a cloud-based platform that enhances existing FAA systems. It utilizes AI to analyze airline schedules, weather patterns, airport capacity, airspace conditions, and operational constraints to forecast traffic flows and pre-emptively identify potential conflicts.
Developed by Air Space Intelligence, Smart will cost the federal government $875 million over a 12-year span. The software is set to launch initially in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area before expanding to other regions.
Additionally, the FAA unveiled a "bold, new" hiring initiative earlier this year intended to eliminate the long-standing staffing shortage. Concurrently, the government is pursuing broader efforts to modernize the nation's aging air traffic infrastructure.
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