Near-collisions at US airports Surge: FAA Takes Action on Air Travel Safety

In recent months, there has been an alarming surge in near-collisions at airports across the United States. These close calls, involving planes coming dangerously close to each other in the air or on the runway, have raised serious concerns about the safety of air travel and prompted investigations into the root causes of these dangerous incidents.

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The Data

According to data from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), there have been at least 47 reported near-collisions at U.S. airports since the beginning of 2023. This represents a significant increase from previous years, with the FAA reporting an average of 30 near-collisions per year over the past decade.

Causes of the Near-Collisions

The causes of these near-collisions are complex and multifaceted, but some common themes have emerged. One of the most significant factors is the increase in air traffic as more people return to travel following the pandemic. This surge in demand has put tremendous pressure on airports and air traffic controllers, making it more difficult to ensure safe spacing between planes.

Contributing Factors

In addition to increased air traffic, several other factors are contributing to the rise in near-collisions:

• Staffing shortages: The FAA has been struggling to recruit and retain air traffic controllers, leading to staffing shortages that are exacerbating the challenges of managing air traffic.

• Airport congestion: Many airports are operating at or near capacity, leaving little margin for error in scheduling and managing flights.

• Pilot error: The FAA has noted an increase in pilot-related errors, such as failing to follow proper procedures or failing to heed air traffic control instructions.

Real-World Examples

A recent near-collision occurred at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in Texas in February 2023. A FedEx cargo plane nearly landed on top of a Southwest Airlines flight that was taking off from the same runway. The two planes came within 100 feet of each other, prompting an FAA investigation.

Another near-collision occurred at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport in January 2023. An American Airlines flight crossed an active taxiway as a Delta Airlines flight was preparing to take off. The two planes came dangerously close to each other, prompting the FAA to issue subpoenas to the American pilots.

FAA and Government Response

In response to these incidents, the FAA and the government have taken several steps to improve safety at airports. The FAA has increased staffing levels at some airports and is working to improve communication between air traffic controllers and pilots. Additionally, the agency is reviewing procedures and protocols to identify areas where improvements can be made.

The government has also proposed new regulations aimed at reducing the risk of near-collisions. These regulations include mandatory training for pilots on how to avoid collisions and improved technology to assist pilots and air traffic controllers.

Expert Opinions and Calls for Action

Despite these efforts, some experts are calling for more action to be taken. Many are advocating for increased investment in airport infrastructure, including new runways, improved technology, and modernized air traffic control systems. They argue that these investments will not only improve safety but also support the growth of the aviation industry.

Conclusion

The recent surge in near-collisions at U.S. airports is a serious problem that demands immediate attention. While the FAA and the government have taken steps to address the issue, more needs to be done to ensure the safety of air travel. With the right investments in infrastructure, technology, and personnel, we can make air travel safer and more efficient for everyone.

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