U.S. Federal Aviation Administration sent this bulletin at 06/10/2026 04:53 PM EDT
Week of June 8, 2026
Big Things Happening in San Diego
Air traffic controllers at San Diego International Airport (SAN) in Southern California are receiving a new Surface Movement Radar (SMR), a vital technology that will help prevent runway incursions. SMRs are the radar backbone for the Airport Surface Detection Equipment Model X (ASDE-X). This critical safety system enables air traffic controllers to track aircraft and vehicles on runways and taxiways and alert them to potential conflicts.
This new system – which is scheduled to be operational next month – is part of U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy’s plan to build a brand new air traffic control system.
"The new ASDE radar system will provide more reliable data and will also result in less outages as parts will be available and repairs will be made more quickly," said SAN Air Traffic Manager David Keeling. Check out some pictures and videos from the installation, available for your use.
FAA Deputy Administrator Chris Rocheleau visited the San Diego air traffic control tower to see the latest updates himself.
“San Diego International Airport, being one of the busiest certainly in Southern California and having the responsibility it does with respect to commercial aviation, general aviation, and of course the military, we wanted to make sure that they have the latest and greatest tool as it related to surface safety,” said Deputy Administrator Rocheleau.
As we approach Thursday’s kickoff, the FAA reminds everyone to leave their drones at home. Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) will be active around all major FIFA games and events. During match days, all aircraft operations, including drones, will be prohibited within a 3-nautical-mile radius and up to 3,000 feet above ground level around the stadiums. Don’t get red-carded for violating a TFR! For more information, visit our FIFA World Cup 2026 webpage.
Kicking off World Cup weather for us is Star Harvey with Fox 11 News out of sunny Los Angeles. The West Coast is expecting warm and dry conditions while the East Coast may see some patches of rain. Dallas and Houston will have plenty of storms rolling through.
