NTSB Issues Recommendation A-11-012 to FAA Regarding ASDE-X Capabilities

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has issued recommendation OPS10IA001, designated as A-11-012, addressed directly to the Federal Aviation Administration. This directive requires the agency to perform a comprehensive technical review of Airport Surface Detection Equipment–Model X (ASDE-X). The primary objective of this review is to determine whether the system possesses the capability to detect improper operations across its entire network. Specifically, the NTSB seeks to ascertain if ASDE-X can identify instances where aircraft land on taxiways, which represents a significant safety concern in airport surface management. The outcome of this technical assessment will help clarify the current limitations and potential enhancements available within the existing detection infrastructure.