NPR
Aviation regulators turn to AI to help manage the nation's airspace
Monday, September 21, 2026
The Federal Aviation Administration announced a project with an $875 million budget to increase efficiency in U.S. airspace using artificial intelligence. The FAA stated the initiative aims to improve air traffic management systems. Some aviation analysts and industry observers have raised questions about whether the project addresses broader structural challenges in the air traffic control system.
Original reporting: https://www.npr.org/2026/09/21/nx-s1-5976816/faa-ai-manage-airspace