Revamping U.S. Air Traffic Infrastructure: A Call to Congress

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy urged Congress to allocate billions for updating the Federal Aviation Administration's outdated telecommunications and radar systems. The proposed plan involves replacing copper wiring with modern technologies and constructing new towers and air traffic control centers to enhance runway safety and operational efficiency.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has issued a fervent appeal to Congress, seeking a substantial financial commitment to overhaul the nation's aging aviation infrastructure. This includes replacing the Federal Aviation Administration's antiquated telecommunications equipment and radar systems with modernized alternatives.

Duffy's comprehensive plan proposes sweeping technological upgrades—shifting from copper wiring to advanced fiber optics, wireless, and satellite technologies. This initiative also involves replacing 618 outdated radars, enhancing the number of airports equipped with surface awareness technology, and constructing six new state-of-the-art air traffic control centers.

The proposed enhancements aim to significantly bolster runway safety and operational efficiency across the U.S., ensuring the aviation sector remains robust and capable of meeting contemporary demands.

(With inputs from agencies.)