The FAA has teamed with the flying community in a yearlong, sweeping examination of safety issues specific to the challenges of flying in Alaska. The *Don Young Alaska Aviation Safety Initiative (DYAASI) team has developed a comprehensive blueprint for increasing aviation safety in Alaska through the management, improvement, and implementation of new and current initiatives.

The blueprint consists of 11 recommendations for improving safety as outlined in the initial report. The DYAASI team produces annual progress reports and roadmaps for the future along with highlighting key successes. 

The FY2024 DYAASI report announced significant positive action. Of the ten currently active recommendations, three saw significant progress towards completion during the fiscal year. 

• The test and evaluation phase of the Visual Weather Observation System (VWOS) was completed in July 2022. The system remains operational and continues to transmit data from four locations in Alaska: Eek, Tatitlek, Healy River, and Palmer. Standards are being developed for VWOS weather information to be used by FAR Part 91 and Part 135 aircraft operators for flight planning. The FAA is actively working toward full implementation of the VWOS program within the National Airspace System. 
• Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) coverage enhancement includes additional new service volumes being activated through the installation of ground-based ADS-B transmitters. The FAA’s Surveillance and Broadcast Services (SBS) office is progressing with the Alaska ADS-B expansion project, which targets the deployment of nine new ADS-B ground-based transmitters by the end of 2025. Service Volumes 325 and 326—which include Kodiak, Homer, Middleton Island, and Johnstone Point—and Service Volumes 330 and 331—covering Tok, Fort Yukon, and Aurora (located 26 miles northeast of Glennallen)—have undergone expansion, with infrastructure installation completed in FY24 and operational readiness targeted for Summer 2025. 
• Air traffic controller staffing improvements are being addressed through a partnership with the University of Alaska Anchorage to pursue an Enhanced Collegiate Training Incentive (ECTI) program. The initiative focuses on outreach and mentoring to attract and retain local talent, while advocating for the establishment of long-term placement pathways for graduates within Alaska. 

*The Initiative was formerly known as the FAA Alaska Aviation Safety Initiative (FAASI).