NTSB Issues Recommendation A-11-034 to FAA Regarding En Route Automation Software
The National Transportation Safety Board has directed the Federal Aviation Administration to update automation systems to provide cautionary warnings when aircraft are predicted to enter minimum instrument flight rules altitude polygons below the required MIA.
Safety recommendation
The National Transportation Safety Board has directed the Federal Aviation Administration to update automation systems to provide cautionary warnings when aircraft are predicted to enter minimum instrument flight rules altitude polygons below the required MIA.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has issued a safety recommendation, designated as A-11-034, addressed directly to the Federal Aviation Administration. This recommendation, associated with NTSB case number WPR11FA032, calls for specific modifications to en route automation modernization software currently utilized by air traffic controllers. The core requirement is that the system must be updated to generate cautionary warnings whenever an aircraft is predicted to enter a minimum instrument flight rules altitude (MIA) polygon that falls below the established MIA. This directive aims to enhance situational awareness for controllers regarding potential altitude violations within controlled airspace sectors. The NSB emphasizes the necessity of these software adjustments to prevent conflicts with terrain or obstacles by ensuring timely alerts are provided during critical phases of flight planning and execution under instrument flight rules.