FlightGlobal
• Kerry Reals
A one-millisecond software defect brought down the UK system managing airspace on September 8, causing widespread flight disruption and thousands of cancellations. NATS’ preliminary report ruled out a cyber-attack and military intervention as engineers worked to restore service.
Airport Infrastructure & Air Traffic Management
Latest source-backed stories
The FAA found President Donald Trump’s proposed triumphal arch near Arlington National Cemetery would not pose a hazard to aircraft, but said the structure must feature a continuously burning flame and floodlights to remain visible to pilots.
The UK’s official climate advisers say expanding Heathrow is incompatible with the country’s climate goals unless emissions-reduction technologies materialize. If those technologies fail to emerge, the government may need to manage passenger demand—potentially challenging the airport’s growth case and future capacity planning.
High activity
A one-millisecond software defect brought down the UK system managing airspace on September 8, causing widespread flight disruption and thousands of cancellations. NATS’ preliminary report ruled out a cyber-attack and military intervention as engineers worked to restore service.
The FAA is adopting a more modest rollout for a new artificial-intelligence tool after airlines expressed concern about its impact on flight scheduling. The phased approach is intended to help manage implementation and limit disruption as the agency introduces the technology.
Graduates of the Virginia college’s air traffic control program will bypass the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City and proceed directly to on-site training, making the institution the latest participant in an effort to streamline the path from classroom instruction to controller qualification.
Japan’s SkyDrive has signed an MOU with South Korea’s Verty to assess commercial eVTOL services from 2028, including short-distance sightseeing and inter-city routes. The partnership will address the integrated operating framework required for deployment, spanning flight operations, air traffic management and vertiport infrastructure.
Australia’s major airlines support shutting Sydney Airport’s control tower overnight to redeploy air traffic controllers, as a persistent staffing shortfall disrupts flights and raises safety concerns. The proposal underscores the operational impact of air traffic management workforce constraints at a major international hub.
Austin plans to introduce landing and fuel fees for general aviation aircraft, with landing charges divided into two weight-based classifications. Fees would also increase during high-traffic events, creating a new cost structure for operators using the airport during peak-demand periods.
Create a free account to see more recent Airport Infrastructure & Air Traffic Management stories and keep bookmarks in one place.
