FAA rolls out AI-driven SMART system at D.C. airports amid congressional concerns
The FAA deployed its new AI-based SMART tool at three Washington-area airports, while lawmakers and industry groups voiced worries about its safety and oversight.
On September 21, the FAA introduced the AI-powered SMART system at three major airports serving the Washington, D.C. region, integrating roughly 200 data streams to improve traffic visualization and forecasting. The deployment sparked criticism from Rep. Don Beyer, who urged a suspension of the rollout until the system could be fully vetted, citing concerns from constituents and air-traffic controllers. After a discussion with FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford, Beyer said the administrator explained that the tool was designed by veteran controllers and operates at the Terminal Radar Approach Control facility in Warrenton, Virginia, not in the towers.
Transportation Secretary Pete Duffy reiterated that humans remain in charge of the airspace and that SMART is intended to provide better data for decision-making while broader system upgrades are still required. One outlet Air Traffic Controllers Association noted it was not involved in SMART’s design or testing, and industry leaders have expressed unease about AI integration following recent high-profile AI incidents. The Department is also seeking an additional $30 billion from Congress to complete its air-traffic modernization program.
Why it matters
The AI system could reshape how U.S. air traffic is managed, affecting safety, delays and future technology investments.
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