The Federal Aviation Administration is launching a new software initiative called Smart, which stands for Strategic Management of Airspace, Routes and Trajectories. The program aims to assist air traffic controllers in managing workflows and improving flight route safety.
Developed by the firm Air Space Intelligence, the cloud-based platform utilizes artificial intelligence to analyze airline schedules, weather patterns, airport capacity, and airspace conditions. It is designed to predict traffic flows and identify potential conflicts in advance.
The government has committed $875 million to the project over a 12-year period. The rollout will begin in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area before expanding to other regions across the country.
This initiative is part of a broader effort by the FAA to modernize aging air traffic systems and address ongoing staffing shortages. The agency previously announced a separate hiring plan intended to resolve these personnel challenges.
