FAA starts using AI to plan flights around Washington

The FAA began limited use of SMART around Washington, D.C., on September 21. The Department of Transportation says it combines 200 data streams, including weather, flight plans and staffing.

The tool forecasts congestion and recommends scheduling changes. According to The Hill, traffic analysts use it to help make decisions about airspace. It does not replace controllers responsible for keeping aircraft safely separated.

SMART remains an advisory tool in limited use. FAA staff review every recommendation, and local leaders can reject it. The announcement does not show that SMART makes tickets cheaper or flights safer.

One delayed flight can throw off aircraft and crew schedules at other airports. An earlier warning could give traffic planners more time to respond.

The department expects fewer cancellations and lower costs, but those benefits remain promises. The launch announcement includes no measured reduction in passenger delays.

Bad weather will be the next test. Delay minutes, rejected recommendations and comparisons with current planning methods could show whether SMART works.

Before expanding the rollout, the FAA could show when SMART helped and when staff rejected its advice.