FAA sets new traffic patterns designed to cut delays

The Federal Aviation Administration says it expects to see air travel delays reduced by 20 percent over the next four years as the result of an “airspace redesign” it has put into effect in the northeastern U.S. – specifically over New York, New Jersey and Philadelphia. The redesign essentially sets new traffic patterns for inbound and outbound aircraft from the region’s major airports, which are among the most congested and delay-prone in the country. “This alternative integrates the airspace surrounding the metropolitan area and expands the use of more efficient (aircraft) separation standards,” FAA said. “This alternative will also allow the FAA to move more rapidly toward satellite-based technology.” The Air Transport Association, representing major airlines, called the change “a much needed first step to relieve unprecedented congestion in the Northeast.”