Council Expresses Support For ATC Modernization Plan

The council has joined more than 50 other aviation organizations voicing support of the Dept. of Transportation's (DOT) plan to modernize U.S. air traffic control infrastructure and fast-track funding for the entire project.

"We are pleased that [DOT Secretary Sean Duffy] has identified the priorities of what must be done to maintain safety and remain a leader in air navigation services," the Modern Skies Coalition said in a statement issued May 8. "We are deeply appreciative that Secretary Duffy has made our nation’s air traffic control system a priority and look forward to working with the Administration and Congress to bring this vision."

The plan released May 8 envisions "a brand new, state-of-the-art air traffic control system" by 2029, DOT said. Meeting the timeline will require substantial investment up front. The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, led by Chairman Sam Graves (R-MO), has included $12.5 billion in ATC modernization funding as part of a recent budget reconciliation proposal. 

"We applaud Chairman Graves’ critical first step in moving forward on $12.5 billion of funding," the Coalition said. 'As the Modern Skies Coalition and Chairman Graves have indicated, this was a down payment to address these systemic, ongoing problems. Based on our analysis, we believe a minimum of $18.5 billion in additional emergency funding should be appropriated over the next three years above the FAA’s annual [facilities & equipment] budget." The DOT's plan does not include a total funding estimate.

Keeping aircraft flying safely and efficiently is key to the U.S. aviation industry's stability and growth. The council's support reflects these fundamental needs, which if not addressed draw attention and resources away from issues more central to ATEC's core mission, such as bolstering support for the technician workforce pipeline.