Industry News

GAO Criticizes FAA on Runway Incursion Record

The Government Accountability Office finds in a recent report that runway incursions have not decreased in the past five years, instead spiking between 2006 and 2007. GAO says FAA has “not carried out its leadership role” since 2002 by not preparing a national runway safety plan, in spite of the agency’s policy to update the plan every two to three years. GAO also says FAA’s data collection is inadequate, and cites a National Transportation Safety Board concern that the agency does not sufficiently address air traffic controller fatigue.

GAO also took issue with current runway safety technology being installed, citing “operational difficulties with its alerting function”, noting that additional technology is years away from use. GAO recommends FAA update its national runway safety plan, collect data on runway overruns, and work with OSHA and the industry to collect and analyze better information on ramp incidents and accidents.

In response, FAA is forming an Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC) to help alleviate some of the problems. The ARC will recommend requirements for landing distance performance assessment prior to landing. FAA will accept applications for participation through January 7, 2008. Comments on the subject are also requested and will be accepted through February 4, 2008.