Lawmakers in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives have introduced companion bills to provide an additional $30 billion in funding to modernize the nation’s air traffic control (ATC) system and upgrade airports.
Rep. Tracey Mann (R-Kansas) and Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-Missouri) each have offered the Modern Skies Act calling for the funding boost after U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said the government would need at least $30 billion more to fully fund ATC modernization plans and upgrade airports in tandem. This money would be in addition to the $12.5 billion Congress approved in 2025—a sum that the administration has called “a down payment” to help replace aging infrastructure but says is insufficient to cover the costs of completing the “Brand New Air Traffic Control System.”
The act would designate $10.1 billion to support the next phase of modernization, including a common automation platform and controller workstation, cloud and telecommunications infrastructure, facility consolidation, and modern air traffic flow-management technology. Another $10 billion would be earmarked for an Aging Terminal Pilot Program to modernize or rebuild major terminals at hub airports. The remainder would go to terminal, tower, and airport improvements.
Noting the historic investment made into ATC upgrades, Mann said, “We are already seeing that investment at work, but the job is not finished. The Modern Skies Act builds on that progress by updating the technology our air traffic controllers rely on, replacing aging towers and facilities, and investing in airports nationwide.”
Schmitt agreed, pointing to the frequent delays and aging airports. “Air travel is more accessible than ever, but for too many Americans, getting where they need to go still feels like a gamble,” he said. “The Modern Skies Act will launch a new era of American aviation by building a world-class system that works better for air traffic controllers, airlines, and, most importantly, passengers.”
The act has drawn wide support from a cross-section of industry stakeholders. “Modernizing our ATC system is a national imperative. While last year’s down payment has allowed the FAA to make significant progress, more funding is needed to finish the job,” said NBAA interim COO Dan Hubbard. “NBAA stands with the broader aviation industry in backing Rep. Mann’s legislation.”
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