New air-traffic system declared safe (16.12.2016)

Experts have declared the new Air Traffic Management System safe and stable after reviewing the Civil Aviation Department's measures to address the system's teething problems. Panel chairman, Director-General of Civil Aviation Simon Li made the statement to reporters today after the panel held its first meeting. The department formed the panel early this month to advise on the new air traffic system’s operation. It comprises academics, electronics engineers and representatives of air-traffic controllers. Members were briefed on the system's design and features, and its teething problems and how they are being handled. Mr Li said there is no need to put the old system back on standby mode. "The system now in operation is safe and stable." He said he is confident the new system will be able to handle air traffic during the Christmas holiday. It is now handling as many as 1,180 flights a day, a similar number to last Christmas. The panel will meet again next month with frontline air-traffic controllers and electronics engineers also invited to share their views on the new system. The panel will release a preliminary report in March or April. (http://j.mp/2gI7kN4)