Wide-Area Multilateration in Colorado

The Problem The rugged terrain that makes Colorado a popular ski destination also makes it impossible for air traffic controllers to maintain radar surveillance over aircraft in certain areas. Limitations to aircraft operations are compounded by bad weather, which causes flight delays and cancellations. The Colorado Department of Transportation estimates an average of 75 aircraft […]

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New FAA System Improves Safety in Remote, Non-Radar Regions

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A new surveillance system introduced by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in Colorado allows air traffic controllers to track aircraft not covered by radar in remote, mountainous regions. “The new system, called Wide-Area Multilateration, lets us see aircraft we couldn’t see before due to the rugged terrain,” said FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt. […]

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FAA Approves 1st U.S. Ground Based Augmentation System

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced the approval of Honeywell’s Smartpath Precision Landing System, clearing the way for increased safety and efficiency at airports by providing precise navigation service based on the global positioning system (GPS). The first U.S.-approved system is located in Memphis, TN and will become operational early next year. “The […]

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FAA Announces New Efforts to Respond to Safety Concerns

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Randy Babbitt today announced a new focus on improving the agency’s response to public safety complaints and whistleblower contributions, as well as renewing efforts to ensure consistent interpretation of agency regulations and policies. He also outlined ongoing actions to ensure that air carriers comply with safety directives […]

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FAA Launches New Accident Prevention Office

WASHINGTON, D.C. — As part of a strategy to reduce emerging aviation risks using national safety data, the agency’s Office of Aviation Safety today launched a new Accident Investigation and Prevention Service that integrates the work of the Offices of Accident Investigation and Safety Analytical Services. “This program give us better tools to spot potential […]

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NASAO Annual Meeting Kicks Off

The 2009 National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) Annual Meeting and Trade Show kicked off on Saturday, September 12th in Tucson, Arizona with committee meetings. Sunday’s daily festivities consisted of a city tour, luncheon and the first ever NASAO golf tournament. Sunday evening was capped off with a welcome reception with exhibitors.     FAA […]

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