DOT watchdog warns of uncertainties with key NextGen program

The project’s cost has increased by $155 million—from $795 million to $950 million—leading the FAA to reduce deployment sites from 89 to 49. This reduction "increases the estimated cost per site while decreasing planned system consolidations and functionality," according to the DOT OIG.

Although major deployment sites are maintained, providing more than 90% of anticipated benefits, funding uncertainties could lead to further reductions in site numbers.

The DOT OIG projects that it will be at least 2025 before airspace users experience benefits such as fuel savings and reduced carbon emissions due to shorter taxi times and delays. The report also highlights risks related to system integration, airline participation, cybersecurity requirements, and ATC human factors and training.

"As a result of the deployment delays and implementation risks, it is uncertain when TFDM will provide full benefits for airspace users," stated the DOT OIG. "Additionally, the budget and schedule may change further, especially as FAA deploys TFDM to more complex sites. We are making recommendations to improve FAA’s TFDM program."

Recommendations from the DOT OIG include assessing a cost-saving measure by removing a data communication requirement for two-way interface between TFDM and Tower Data Link Services, evaluating human factors issues involved in implementation, and improving training protocols.

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