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U.S. Unveils $31 Billion Plan to Modernize Air Traffic Control System

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announces a phased, multibillion-dollar overhaul of 1960s-era infrastructure to address safety risks and operational inefficiencies.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy is surrounded onstage by units representing outdated air traffic control equipment still in use as he launches an air traffic control infrastructure plan during an event at the Transportation Department in Washington, D.C., U.S., May 8, 2025. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announces an air traffic control infrastructure plan at the Transportation Department in Washington, D.C., U.S., May 8, 2025.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announces a new air traffic control infrastructure plan on Thursday in Washington. (JULIA DEMAREE NIKHINSON/AP)

Overview

  • The modernization plan seeks to replace outdated air traffic control systems, including 25,000 radios, 618 radars, and six new air traffic control centers.
  • Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized a three-to-four-year phased rollout to ensure safety during the transition without disrupting operations.
  • The plan follows recent incidents, including a Newark Liberty International Airport meltdown and a fatal midair collision, that highlighted urgent infrastructure needs.
  • The Federal Aviation Administration has faced flat funding for 15 years, with inflation eroding purchasing power by $1 billion annually, prompting calls for emergency funding.
  • Aviation stakeholders are advocating for at least $31 billion in funding, while a U.S. House panel has proposed $12.5 billion to address critical upgrades.