The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is preparing to deploy an AI-driven tool to assist air traffic controllers in managing congestion within the airspace above the Washington, DC area. The rollout of the SMART system, expected to debut as early as Monday, September 21, marks the first step toward a planned nationwide implementation covering 29 million square miles of U.S. airspace.
Product LaunchesFederal Aviation AdministrationSMART
FAA to Pilot AI-Powered SMART Tool for Air Traffic Management in Washington, DC
The SMART system utilizes AI models to predict air traffic flows and identify potential conflicts by analyzing operational factors, including airline schedules, weather, airport capacity, and airspace conditions. The tool aims to provide the FAA, airlines, and aircraft operators with a shared view of operational conditions to facilitate more efficient flight routes and departure times. Key objectives include reducing fuel consumption, improving on-time performance, and speeding up recovery from weather-related or congestion-driven delays.
According to reports, the deployment follows a $875 million, 12-year contract awarded to Air Space Intelligence in June. The company's Flyways AI platform already assists in managing over 40 percent of U.S. air traffic through partnerships with carriers like Alaska Airlines. While the exact types of AI models used in SMART remain unclear, the system is intended to provide "alternative route information" through existing FAA systems without changing established procedures for controllers or airlines.
The introduction of AI assistance comes as the FAA manages infrastructure upgrades and faces a long-term air traffic controller shortage. Reports indicate that the controller workforce has declined by 6 percent over the past decade, exacerbated by various factors including government shutdowns and recruitment challenges. In the Washington, DC area, the initial trial will focus on the three major airports to validate the system's performance before a broader rollout.
Sources
- FAA tees up $875M AI tool to help manage air traffic congestion （Ars Technica AI, 2026-09-18）