The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced the expansion of its AI tool, SMART, to manage air traffic across all US airspace. Initially implemented in Washington, DC, on September 21, the system has rerouted 180 flights, saving an average of 10 minutes and nearly 80 gallons of fuel per flight. While airline executives support the initiative, the labor union for air traffic controllers has expressed concerns about not being involved in its development.
Key facts
- FAA's SMART system costs $875 million.
- The system rerouted 180 flights since September 21.
- Average savings of 10 minutes and 80 gallons of fuel per flight.
- Expansion includes all 22 air traffic centers in the US.
- Union representing air traffic controllers was not involved in the system's design.
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