U.S. GAO Calls for Air Traffic Control Modernization
On March 7, 2025, the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a report emphasizing the urgent need for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to modernize its air traffic control (ATC) systems. According to a report by Caleb Revill for Flying, the findings are daunting.
The GAO identified 105 ATC systems that are either unsustainable or show signs of potential unsustainability. Specifically, out of 138 assessed systems, 51 (about 37%) were labeled as unsustainable, while 54 (approximately 39%) were considered potentially unsustainable. These findings highlight a pressing operational impact, affecting both the safety and efficiency of the national airspace system.
Furthermore, the report indicates that as of May 2024, completion dates for vital system investments that have raised significant concerns are projected to be 6 to 10 years away. Alarmingly, there are four systems that lack any associated investments.
The full GAO report can be accessed here.
For related insights, consider the following:
- Honeywell survey shows passengers ready to embrace eVTOL future
- Aviation groups call for urgent action on ATC modernization and staffing
- RTX’s Collins Aerospace seeks collaboration with small- and medium-sized businesses
Jamie Whitney, Senior Editor
Military + Aerospace Electronics
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