FAA looks to new policies after Chicago fire

The Federal Aviation Administration will develop more adaptable strategies for airline traffic control emergencies.

   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.”