FAA deploys AI at DC airports
The gist
The FAA is deploying an AI tool called SMART at three Washington-area airports.
The $875 million system is the first step toward nationwide use by 2028.
How it unfolded
- Jun 2026The technology was officially announced; Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said it would 'fundamentally reshape how the airspace is managed' and slash thousands of delays and cancellations.
- Sep 18, 2026The New York Times reported the Trump administration planned to roll out the AI air traffic control tool in the Washington region starting Monday, as the opening step of an eventual nationwide deployment; other outlets reported a limited launch could begin as soon as Monday, September 21.
- Sep 19, 2026Travel Radar reported the FAA confirmed the AI-powered tool would debut in the Washington, D.C. area and could be implemented as early as Sept. 21.