FAA to Roll Out $875M AI Air Traffic Management Tool SMART

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) plans to roll out SMART, an $875 million AI software project developed by Air Space Intelligence, to help air traffic controllers manage workflows and navigate flight routes more safely. The 12-year program is expected to reduce flight delays and cancellations. It will first be deployed in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area before expanding nationwide.

SMART stands for Strategic Management of Airspace, Routes, and Trajectories. According to an FAA fact sheet, the cloud-based platform is designed to enhance the agency’s existing air traffic management systems. The software uses AI to assess airline schedules, weather, airport capacity, airspace conditions, and operational constraints, allowing it to predict traffic flows and identify potential conflicts before they occur.

The FAA has been dealing with an air traffic controller shortage across the country and has said it is looking for innovative solutions. Earlier in 2026, the agency also announced a new controller hiring plan and has been working to modernize aging air traffic systems. The Wall Street Journal reported that the contract spans 12 years and will begin in the Washington region.