Thu, Jul 01, 2004
Will Update System That Evolved Over Decades
The FAA Wednesday
awarded Computer Sciences Corp. (CSC) of El Segundo (CA), a $13.5
million contract to begin upgrading the automated system the agency
uses to ensure the most efficient flow of the nation’s air
traffic.
Under the Traffic Flow Management (TFM) modernization contract,
CSC will design an advanced computer platform that uses air traffic
data from across the country to better predict when the number of
flights exceed available routes and capacity. The FAA uses
this information to run special programs to reduce delays due to
severe weather and congestion. This information also helps airlines
to provide accurate flight departure and arrival information to
passengers.
"This system gives the FAA a daily game plan to route more
planes safely and efficiently," said FAA Administrator Marion
Blakey. "It’s one more tool the FAA has at its disposal to
reduce delays and keep passengers moving."
The existing TFM system uses software developed over several
decades. The contract also calls for an upgraded TFM system to be
able to be expanded to handle future capabilities which will allow
FAA traffic managers to keep pace with the growing volume and
complexity of air traffic.
Automation systems to be upgraded include the current TFM
centralized processing system and subsystems located at more than
70 air traffic control facilities throughout the United States,
including the Air Traffic Control System Command Center in Herndon
(VA).
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