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SFO Delays Quadruple After FAA Bans Parallel Landings Due to Radar System Issue

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is facing significant operational challenges and passenger delays following a temporary FAA ban on a key landing procedure. The restriction prohibits Simultaneous Offset Instrument Approaches (SOIA), which are essential for maintaining arrival capacity on the airport's closely spaced parallel runways during poor weather. This decision stems from a software issue with the FAA's Standard Terminal Automation Replacement System (STARS). The ban effectively cuts SFO's arrival rate in half under low visibility conditions, causing delays to be four times longer than normal. The FAA expects to resolve the system issue and lift the restriction by the end of May.

Official Source: https://simpleflying.com/sfo-delays-4x-longer-faa-parallel-landing-ban/