Huge Airbus jet may hinder airports

U.S. airports planning to accommodate the Airbus A380 expect restrictions for other aircraft operating near the super-jumbo jet that could increase ground delays for some flights, congressional researchers said Friday.

The General Accountability Office study shows that policymakers, airport operators and airlines are unsure about the effect the European-made jetliner will have on operations at New York’s John F. Kennedy International, Los Angeles International and 16 other airports.

But the research suggests that the world’s biggest passenger plane could slow ground traffic and lengthen landing and takeoff waits as trailing aircraft keep their distance from the A380’s aerodynamic wake. Those delays may limit the number of flights that airports can handle and cost airlines financially, depending on the number of A380 flights and when they occur, the GAO concluded.

“In some cases, all other aircraft on the ground may need to stop completely while the A380 lumbers through,” said Rep. John L. Mica (R-Fla.), who sits on the House Transportation and Infrastructure subcommittee on aviation.

Additionally, limiting the A380 to designated runways, taxiways or gates could compromise air controllers’ flexibility in handling other traffic.

The Federal Aviation Administration and industry experts “generally agreed that the A380 will add another element of complexity to airport operations and airspace management,” the GAO said.

The FAA continues to study the matter.