The Federal Aviation Administration announced Thursday a sweeping modernization of the nation’s air traffic control infrastructure, initiating a three-year effort to replace outdated systems and improve safety, efficiency, and reliability in the skies. The overhaul, driven by growing traveler concerns and several recent aviation tragedies, comes as federal officials acknowledge that much of the existing system relies on antiquated technology dating back to the 1960s.
The plan includes replacing the current Time Division Multiplexing network with an internet-based protocol by 2028 and upgrading analog communication systems still in use at many facilities. Voice communication systems more than 30 years old will be replaced by 2027, and 618 airborne radar systems—many of which have exceeded their intended lifespan—will be retired.
President Donald Trump addressed the situation in a phone call with Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, expressing empathy for passengers and pledging support for infrastructure improvements. “We’re going to get them fixed up,” Trump said, calling attention to the age and incompatibility of current systems. Secretary Duffy stressed the urgent need for Congressional support to fund the multi-billion-dollar initiative. “I can’t do it by myself,” he said, adding that full financial backing from lawmakers is essential to complete the work within the targeted timeframe.
Congressional leaders from both parties signaled strong bipartisan backing. Representative Rick Larsen of Washington emphasized the need to act swiftly to prevent another generation from inheriting these deficiencies. Representative Sam Graves joined him in pledging cooperation to ensure the upgrades proceed without political delay.
The announcement follows a series of deadly incidents earlier this year, including a midair collision near Washington, D.C., that killed 67, and crashes in Philadelphia, Alaska, and Toronto that left dozens dead and injured. These tragedies, along with a recent communications failure in Newark’s airspace due to outdated copper wiring, have intensified calls for urgent reform.
The FAA also revealed plans to build six new state-of-the-art air traffic control centers—the first such construction since the 1960s—and to expand its capability to manage commercial spaceflight and unmanned aerial vehicles, both of which are rapidly increasing in volume and complexity.
American Airlines CEO Robert Isom, speaking alongside federal officials and family members of crash victims, emphasized the importance of this moment. “This accident should never have happened,” he said, referring to the Reagan National tragedy. “We mourn with you, and we’re going to be with you now and for the long run.”
Federal officials said that without immediate investment in modern radar, telecommunications, and safety infrastructure, the growing demands of commercial and private aviation may exceed the system’s capabilities, putting both passengers and the future of U.S. aviation at risk.
