FAA's new artificial intelligence software reduces flight delays at DFW Airport

The artificial intelligence-based software developed by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), called Strategic Airspace, Route and Traffic Management (SMART), has been deployed to increase efficiency in flight operations at Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) International Airport.

According to information shared by the U.S. Department of Transportation, the SMART platform centralizes 200 different data streams, including weather, flight paths, traffic flow, and staffing data, to provide route recommendations to air traffic controllers. In a recent cargo flight, it was noted that by using a shorter route suggested by the system, the aircraft landed at DFW 12 minutes earlier than scheduled.

The software, which was first tested in September at airports in the Washington D.C. area, has also been expanded to air traffic control centers in Jacksonville, Miami, and Atlanta. According to department data, the system has rerouted approximately 180 flights nationwide, improving flight times by more than 10 minutes and saving an average of 80 gallons of fuel.

U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy stated that SMART will reduce stress on air traffic controllers and lower travel costs. American Airlines CEO Robert Isom emphasized that modernization investments are critical for safety and efficiency, noting that the system allows for more effective use of airspace, especially during adverse weather conditions.