Trump Administration's Sean Duffy Proposes $Billions Overhaul of U.S. Air Traffic Control, Aiming for 2028 Completion with 6 New Centers and 600 Radars

The Trump administration has unveiled a comprehensive plan to overhaul the U.S. air traffic control system, which Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced in Washington, D.C. The initiative aims to address the aging infrastructure that has been highlighted by recent deadly plane crashes and technical failures. The proposed overhaul includes the construction of six new air traffic control centers, the replacement of over 600 radars, and the installation of fiber optics to replace outdated copper wires. Duffy emphasized the need for modernizing the system, citing instances where parts for outdated equipment are sourced from online platforms like eBay. The plan also involves significant technology and communications upgrades at over 4,600 sites, including the deployment of 25,000 new radios and 475 voice switches, with a goal to complete the project by 2028. The cost of the overhaul is expected to run into 'lots of billions' of dollars, with Duffy indicating that the final amount would be determined in collaboration with Congress. The urgency of the project was underscored by the recent midair collision near Washington, D.C., which resulted in 67 deaths and has intensified calls for immediate action to improve air traffic safety. The plan also expands surface awareness technology to 200 airports and adds 174 new weather stations in Alaska to address regional issues. Duffy highlighted the need for 3,000 additional air traffic controllers to fully staff the system.