Artificial intelligence is moving into practical air-traffic planning through the FAA’s SMART system, which began limited use around Washington, D.C., on 21 September. A subsequent funding proposal highlighted the technology’s place in the wider modernisation programme.
SMART—Strategic Management of Airspace, Routes and Trajectories—combines 200 data streams, including weather, flight paths, traffic demand and controller staffing. Its AI-supported engine helps specialists anticipate congestion and propose scheduling responses before disruptions develop.
The FAA says staff review every recommendation. Local air-traffic facility leadership can accept or decline suggestions; SMART neither replaces controllers nor takes control of aircraft. The agency plans a gradual expansion beyond the initial area.
For operators, the proposed value is earlier visibility of constraints and more predictable planning. Claims of fewer delays or lower operating costs remain expected benefits in the launch announcement, rather than measured results reported there.
On 29 September, the FAA backed the proposed $30 billion Modern Skies Act. One $10 billion portion would support digital infrastructure, including SMART alongside other systems. The remaining portions address airport infrastructure and an airport grant programme. The announcement called on Congress to pass the legislation; it did not report that the proposed funding had been enacted.