A publication of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association
Issue link: http://natca.uberflip.com/i/952002
An SRM Panel was held August 1-3 to analyze the risks associated with partial or complete removal of radar systems in a post 2020 environment. The conclusions of the Panel were that partial removal actually resulted in higher risks than complete removal. This assumes that complete removal would only occur where the effects were minimized by other overlapping radar sources nearby. An additional SRMD is planned for the week of April 9. Terminal Fusion: The Fusion Focus Group continues to track and resolve facility reported issues with Fusion. These are largely issues with the underlying surveillance infrastructure, and experts from all fields are available to assist. Please report any issues to your OSF and our NATCA SBS group for assistance. It is critical that actual data is recorded for evaluation and resolution. SCT issues continue to be a large focus. NATCA SBS is heavily involved in the Surveillance Automation Analysis Team (SAAT), which is examining long-term alternatives to help improve overall surveillance in the SCT airspace. The result is a multi-faceted approach including WAM, raising LGB radar, introducing other nearby radar feeds, STARS software changes, and radar software changes. In addition, SAAT is focused on mitigating tracking issues in the LA Basin due to the construction of a new NFL stadium on final approach to LAX. The LGB radar site is now back online and in use at SCT. The radar site was raised from 37 feet to 67 feet. Feedback from SCT has been positive. Agreements are being worked with the military to ensure availability and performance of the North Island radar. Adding this additional surveillance source shows promise for tracking issues around SAN airport. WAM has been plagued by numerous fits and starts harming the confidence of the facility. The path forward is uncertain, but a remedy for interference from LA stadium construction is desperately needed. The second phase of WAM at SCT is expected to be available by May 2018. SAAT has been analyzing Potomac (PCT) Fusion issues for potential solutions. The facility has been struggling with a number of issues related to problem radar sites or a lack of coverage. Radar analysis is confirming the benefit of adding Quantico (NYG) radar to PCT as well as reducing obstructions near Dulles. Funding for the additional NYG feed is being sought. NATCA and Ops Support SMEs from SBS have been reviewing numerous requests for additional radar feeds across the NAS. Our team is focusing on those that benefit Fusion tracking. Issues such as service expansion are outside of SBS scope. Vehicle ADS-B: 1281 vehicles equipped at 20 airports. MSY outreach briefing is scheduled for March 6th in conjunction with the ASSC briefing.