FAA Seeks ‘Low-Cost’ Surveillance

FAA said it awarded a first contract to install and test a low-cost ground surveillance system that would improve runway safety at small to medium-sized airports.

The first contract was awarded to Thales ATM, based in Shawnee, Kan. To deliver, install and test a ground surveillance system at airports chosen by FAA. Additional contracts are expected to be awarded soon to other interested companies.

Low-cost ground surveillance systems would be installed at airports not included among the 35 scheduled to receive the Sensis Corp. Airport Surface Detection Equipment–Model X (ASDE-X) system. FAA will use field tests to determine which systems to deploy.

The planned low-cost systems would give air-traffic controllers basic ground surveillance for aircraft and vehicles operating on runways and adjacent taxiways. The systems would also provide a foundation for future radar-based runway safety systems, FAA said.

“Sometimes the simplest ideas are the best ideas,” said Acting Administrator Robert A. Sturgell. “Our goal is to get this technology to airports as quickly as possible. These low-cost systems will have a direct effect on runway incursions.”