Modernizing U.S. air traffic control systems requires a multi-pronged approach

6 March 2025 2 minutes Author: Newsman

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said it is working with aging air traffic control systems. The FAA is currently testing SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet, fiber-optic and wireless solutions to help ensure safety in the nation’s airspace.

The FAA is testing Starlink at three terminals in Alaska to improve the stability of weather data and is considering implementing the technology at its facilities in Oklahoma City and Atlantic City. Meanwhile, the U.S. Congress is debating a $2.4 billion contract. Some Democrats are proposing to terminate the FAA’s contract with Verizon and award the contract to Starlink, a proposal supported by President Trump adviser Elon Musk, who said the FAA has not yet made a final decision. Compounding the problem is the aging air traffic control infrastructure that urgently needs to be upgraded, with the Government Accountability Office (GAO) estimating that one-third of the air traffic control system is beyond repair, potentially leading to disruptions to air traffic.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is responsible for air traffic safety in the United States, handling more than 45,000 flights each day. The primary problem is the aging air traffic control system, which uses technology developed in the 1990s. The solution is to deploy satellite internet that will provide reliable connectivity even in remote areas like Alaska.

Modernizing the U.S. aviation infrastructure requires a comprehensive approach using satellite, fiber, and wireless technologies; the FAA is testing Starlink as a potential alternative to traditional carriers but has not yet made a final decision on a large-scale deployment.

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