Some airlines have informed me that even with the increase in severe weather days so far this year, our collaborative efforts enabled them to better plan and execute operations in advance of the severe weather. I do not want to suggest that this new approach will eliminate delays. That is not possible. What we are doing is providing the basis to better manage delays through continuous communication and collaboration. This approach provides the predictability that the airlines need in order to manage their operations.
Predictability is key.
I also want to say that some airlines take different approaches to predictions of severe weather. The FAA is not only working with many challenging issues, such as weather, airport capacity, and airline scheduling. We are also working in an environment in which our customers are in fierce competition with each other. Collaboration it not always easy in such a competitive industry. While I am satisfied that FAA is stepping up to the plate, acknowledging our shortfalls and working in a productive and collaborative way to deal with them, air traffic control faces significant challenges in both the short and long term.