After a thorough investigation into the September Chicago Air Route Traffic Control Center fire, the Federal Aviation Administration
is rolling out new policies.
The
new developments include a more adaptable contingency strategy, where
key traffic control facilities can be back up and running in a matter of
hours instead of days. The new procedures will be implemented in a
three-step plan.
“Acceleration
of advanced air traffic technologies known as NextGen would provide
that flexibility,” according to an FAA press release. “In response to
the security review, the FAA will adjust and refine the agency’s risk
assessment approach for both facility and personnel security, to ensure
it can meet the unique needs of each facility.”
In
a statement, U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said the top
priority during the fall crisis was to land all planes in Chicago
safely.
“But
we can and will improve our contingency plans for efficiency. We have a
national infrastructure deficit facing our nation from which the
national aviation system is not immune,” he said. “The FAA needs a
stable and reliable funding stream to fully implement NextGen, which
will further reduce delays and service disruptions.”
FAA looks to new policies after Chicago fire
The Federal Aviation Administration will develop more adaptable strategies for airline traffic control emergencies.
