The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is preparing to launch a new AI-based software program, Smart, to help air traffic controllers manage their workflows and navigate flight routes more safely. The programme, which stands for Strategic Management of Airspace, Routes and Trajectories, is expected to cost the government $875 million over a 12-year period.
Smart is described as a cloud-based platform that enhances existing FAA air traffic management systems. It uses artificial intelligence to assess various factors, including airline schedules, weather, airport capacity, and airspace conditions, to predict traffic flows and identify potential conflicts before they arise.
Developed by Air Space Intelligence, the software will initially be rolled out in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area before expanding to other regions. This initiative comes as the FAA continues to address an air traffic control shortage and modernise its aging systems, alongside a new hiring plan announced earlier this year.