'Despite all past efforts, system failures occur'

A view of the air traffic control tower at Newark Liberty International Airport in Newark, New Jersey

(Image credit: Bing Guan / Bloomberg via Getty Images)

published 15 May 2025

'We are desperately short of air traffic controllers — could AI help close the gap?'

Sheldon H. Jacobson at The Hill

The "modern era's volume of flights is overwhelming how controllers communicate with flight crews and perform flight tracking," says Sheldon H. Jacobson. What is "needed is an overhaul of the air traffic control system and the technology being used." AI "cannot replace air traffic controllers, nor should it." But it "can, however, support their efforts, making it possible for air traffic controllers to be more efficient and effective, and perhaps reduce the risk of miscommunications."

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Justin Klawans has worked as a staff writer at The Week since 2022. He began his career covering local news before joining Newsweek as a breaking news reporter, where he wrote about politics, national and global affairs, business, crime, sports, film, television and other news. Justin has also freelanced for outlets including Collider and United Press International.