As more facts are coming to light regarding the runway incursion incident at JFK on January 13, 2023, it appears that a “safety system” used by ground controllers may have saved the day. In the NTSB’s preliminary report on the incident, it is stated:
The ASDE-X alerted the JFK ATC tower to the conflict, and the tower controller issued a takeoff cancellation to DAL 1943.
The Airport Surface Detection System — Model X (ASDE-X) is a surveillance system using radar, multilateration, and satellite technology that allows air traffic controllers to track the surface movement of aircraft and vehicles. It was developed to help reduce critical Category A and B runway incursions.
The preliminary report does NOT draw any conclusion, but it does make clear that this “safety system” is what alerts the traffic controllers of the “conflict.” I would love to know the means that the ASDE uses to alert the controllers of any conflict, as imagine the controller(s) not recognizing the alarm by not hearing a tone or not seeing the indicator.
A special NOTE regarding the ASDE system… it is in use at ONLY 35 airports in the USA.
Here is what we know so far…