Aviation Safety Concerns - Increased air traffic congestion leads to more reported close calls, raising concerns despite the rarity of serious incidents [4] - Many near-misses occur at or near airports, highlighting the danger in traffic patterns [6][7] - Air traffic controller shortages and outdated technology in control towers contribute to collision risks [7] - FAA reports over 1,300 runway incursions in 2025, with three classified as serious incidents where collisions were avoided [8] Technological Solutions and Advancements - Honeywell's new Anti-collision software aims to provide pilots with more reaction time to avoid close calls [2] - TCAS (Traffic alert and collision avoidance systems) is required on U S commercial passenger planes since 1991, but has limitations below 1,000ft [8][11] - Honeywell's Surface Alert (Surf A) technology provides an additional 32 seconds of alert time to pilots about traffic on the runway [14] - Smart-X (Smart Runway, Smart Landing, or RAAS) alerts pilots to various issues like incorrect flap settings or runway length [17][18] - FAA mandated Ads-b out in 2020 for improved accuracy using satellite-derived positioning [24] - FAA is developing Acas X to use surveillance data for a more accurate picture of collision threats [25] Costs and Adoption - Honeywell's new systems are predicted to cost a few million dollars, potentially $20 million to $30 million, depending on fleet size [22] - Airlines make individual decisions to go beyond FAA minimum standards for safety, adding extra layers of protection [19][20] - Smart-X features are mostly mandated for new airplanes, but Honeywell is also targeting retrofit airplanes [21]