Tuesday, July 1, 2025
As air travel ramps up ahead of the holiday season, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is rolling out a game-changing safety system to reduce runway incursions. This innovative technology is designed to alert air traffic controllers when a runway is occupied, ensuring clearer communication and smoother operations. However, the new system won’t be debuting in New York and New Jersey airports just yet. Here’s why these major hubs won’t be part of the initial rollout and what other measures are being taken to keep travelers safe.
New Technology to Combat Runway Incursions
Runway incursions, when an aircraft mistakenly enters a runway it shouldn’t be on, can lead to dangerous situations. The FAA’s new device is a technological upgrade aimed at reducing these incidents by alerting air traffic controllers when a runway is occupied. The system will use voice prompts and flashing lights to immediately grab controllers’ attention, allowing for quick responses.
The FAA plans to have this system up and running at more than 70 locations across the U.S. by 2027. While this is a significant leap forward in safety, New York and New Jersey airports, including JFK and Newark, will not be part of the initial deployment.
Why Aren’t New York and New Jersey Included?
Acting FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau explained that the focus of the initial rollout would be on airports deemed to have higher risks for incursions. This strategy allows the FAA to address potential dangers sooner, while also assessing whether other airports will benefit from the technology.
“New York and New Jersey are not excluded, but we are starting with those airports that face higher risks,” Rocheleau said. Despite this, the FAA reassured the public that other safety measures are already in place at these high-traffic airports.
Runway Incursions: A Persistent Problem
While the number of runway incursions has improved in recent years, the rate is still 15% higher than it was a decade ago. In 2014, there were 26 incursions per million arrivals and departures; in 2024, that number increased to 30. This suggests that while efforts to improve safety have been successful, there’s still work to be done.
The FAA believes the new system will play a key role in lowering those numbers, reducing the risk of accidents, and enhancing overall safety in the skies. However, the technology is just one part of a larger strategy.
Simulators Speed Up Training for Air Traffic Controllers
At the FAA’s tech center near Atlantic City, new tools are being used to enhance air traffic control training. Not only is the FAA deploying advanced simulators at over 50 locations—including Newark—but it’s also giving trainees access to high-fidelity 4K tower simulators. These realistic simulations replicate actual airport environments, allowing controllers to practice managing air traffic under various weather conditions and scenarios.
“These simulators help us get controllers qualified and certified 25% faster,” said FAA transportation specialist Johnny Riaz. The system’s ability to quickly adapt to different conditions—such as a sudden downpour or clear skies—accelerates training, ensuring controllers are ready to handle whatever challenges they might face.
Keeping the Skies Safe Amid Infrastructure Challenges
Riaz emphasized that, despite ongoing infrastructure challenges, the FAA is committed to maintaining the safety of the world’s busiest airspace system. With runway safety technology, improved training tools, and an overall focus on readiness, the FAA aims to reduce runway incidents even further. For the second year in a row, close calls on runways are expected to decrease.
Riaz also assured the public that flying remains “absolutely safe.” As more safety measures come into play, the FAA is confident that the air traffic control system will remain the safest in the world, even with the growing demands on major airports like those in New York and New Jersey.
A Future of Smarter, Safer Air Travel
The FAA’s runway incursion system and training upgrades represent a significant step toward safer air travel. While some areas will have to wait for the new technology, it’s clear that the FAA is taking all the necessary precautions to ensure that safety doesn’t fall behind as air traffic increases. Whether you’re traveling through New York or smaller regional airports, the goal is clear: to reduce risks and make flying safer for everyone.
As more airports receive this upgraded system in the coming years, we can expect a smoother, more secure air travel experience, particularly during busy holiday periods when safety concerns are top of mind.
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