Efforts to Modernize U.S. Air Traffic Control System

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The Department of Transportation has launched a new website to track a $12.5 billion initiative aimed at modernizing the nation’s air traffic control system. The Modern Skies website highlights over 10,000 ongoing projects and includes summaries and a progress tracker updated monthly. Its interactive map displays projects by location, showing completed work and projects expected in the next month.

“One reason past efforts failed was a lack of transparency. We’re taking a different approach,” said Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy.

The website is part of a larger push to handle increased flight demand, with an anticipated 5.4 million flights from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The effort includes the replacement of outdated infrastructure, such as radar systems and radios, funded by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Duffy aims to complete major upgrades by 2028, which include:

Replacing copper wire telecommunications connections
27,000 new radios
450 digital voice switches
612 radar systems
Surface awareness surveillance systems at over 200 airports
Enhancements to control towers

The FAA’s commitment to transparency is echoed by Administrator Bryan Bedford. He emphasizes the need for the American public to see how investments are progressing.

During a Senate hearing, Bedford highlighted the increased strain on air traffic control with over one billion passenger movements annually and additional demands from drones, advanced air mobility, and frequent space launches.

“The build is happening,” Duffy stated, emphasizing the urgency and scope of the project.

The website reports that 51% of the copper wiring replacements and 18% of radio conversions are complete. Upcoming projects include installing surface awareness systems at two airports and deploying a new radar system.

Further funding is being sought to develop AI software tools to enhance efficiency and safety.