Overview

• A Department of Transportation inspector general audit released October 1 reports NextGen has realized about 16% of projected benefits despite spending exceeding $15 billion since 2003.
• The audit says costs have climbed more than 20% and the modernization delivered to date is narrower and later than originally promised.
• Scope has been cut with roughly 45% fewer airports slated for upgrades, and key capabilities are pushed well into the 2030s, including broad rollout of the Terminal Flight Data Manager.
• Congress approved $12.5 billion for air traffic control modernization in July, and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has requested roughly $19 billion more.
• The FAA has not responded publicly to the audit, and lawmakers are expected to review the findings as controller shortages and heavy overtime continue to strain operations.