Airlines for America thanks Trump admin. for commitment to new air traffic control system

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Airlines for America thanks Trump admin. for commitment to new air traffic control system

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Nicholas E. Calio, CEO Airlines for America | Linkedin

By Sky Industry News

May 5, 2025

Airlines for America announced its gratitude to President Donald J. Trump and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy for their commitment to modernizing the U.S. air traffic control system.

According to Airlines for America (A4A), the U.S. air traffic control system remains reliant on analog technologies dating back to the 1980s, such as copper wire communication and floppy disk data storage. In a recent industry statement, A4A praised the Trump administration and Secretary Duffy for prioritizing modernization, stating that a digitally integrated, satellite-based system is long overdue. The organization continues to advocate for investment in NextGen air traffic technologies that improve safety, reduce delays, and enhance operational efficiency across the National Airspace System.

According to Reuters, President Donald Trump announced that the U.S. government is evaluating IBM and Raytheon Technologies as potential vendors to lead the overhaul of the federal air traffic control infrastructure. During a cabinet meeting, Trump emphasized that the existing system is dangerously outdated and highlighted the need to replace it with modern radar, fiber-optic, and software-driven technologies. A $12.5 billion investment package covering upgrades through 2029 is currently under review by the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

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According to a 2024 report from the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO), more than 100 of the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) air traffic control systems are either unsustainable or nearing obsolescence. The report found that 51 systems are unsustainable, and 54 others face potential support and maintenance challenges, primarily due to outdated equipment and retiring technical staff. The GAO strongly recommended accelerated modernization to avoid increased safety risks, delays, and service failures within the National Airspace System.

Airlines for America (A4A) is a trade association founded in 1936 that represents leading U.S. passenger and cargo carriers. The organization engages in policy advocacy, regulatory affairs, and public relations to support airline industry interests, focusing on safety, efficiency, and infrastructure investment. A4A's members include major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Alaska Airlines; it regularly partners with federal agencies to address key aviation issues.