Planes sometimes fly in circles before they land. This does not always mean bad weather or a problem with the plane. Often, the airport has no room for them to land yet. A problem in one place can delay flights far away.
A United Nations group called ICAO wants countries to plan flights together. If an airport is too busy, other airports can make planes wait before they leave. Airlines, airports, weather services and people who guide planes can share information. This can reduce waiting in the sky.
Some countries already work this way, but they do not always share information across borders. After five days of talks in Montreal, governments and businesses supported faster action around the world. Passengers should get news about delays and canceled flights earlier. Flights should also return to normal sooner after problems.
Tests in the Americas saved more than 265,000 minutes of flying time in 2026. They also saved over $38.9 million and used less fuel. Less carbon dioxide went into the air. ICAO plans meetings to help regions prepare in 2027, and new international rules are due in November 2030.
