Possible Second Shutdown Looms Large over ATC Overhaul | Aviation International News

Possible Second Shutdown Looms Large over ATC Overhaul

A4A backing bill to shield the FAA from another shutdown

By David Hughes

November 25, 2025

The U.S. Department of Transportation is making progress on plans to create a “brand new” air traffic control (ATC) system in three years, but another potential government shutdown in late January could add delays. “It doesn’t matter if we have a newer ATC system if it’s going to be shut down for 40 days,” said Sharon Pinkerton, Airlines for America (A4A) senior v-p for legislative and regulatory policy, speaking last week at a Honeywell aviation leadership summit in Washington, D.C..

A4A is backing a bill introduced by Sen. Jerry Moran (R-Kansas) that would use Airport and Airways Trust Fund money to fund FAA operations, including if a shutdown recurs on January 30. She didn’t indicate if such a bill could be passed in time.

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