Terminal Automation Modernization and Replacement (TAMR)

The TAMR Program Office sustains the Standard Terminal Automation Replacement System (STARS) at Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON) facilities and their associated Air Traffic Control Towers across the National Airspace System (NAS).

Refer to the following caption.
Old and new Terminal Automation Systems shown side-by-side for comparison

What is Terminal Automation?

Terminal automation systems receive surveillance data and aircraft flight plan information. Controllers at radar control facilities use these systems to manage air traffic immediately around airports, and technicians maintain these systems at facilities.

These systems enable controllers to provide several air traffic control services that are critical to the safety of the national airspace:

  • Separating and sequencing of aircraft
  • Conflict and terrain avoidance alerts
  • Weather advisories
  • Radar vectoring for departing and arriving traffic

What is STARS?

STARS is a single, state-of-the-art platform installed at TRACONs and their associated Air Traffic Control Towers. STARS:

  • Maintains safety while increasing cost-effectiveness at terminal facilities across the NAS
  • Provides advanced functionalities for controllers, such as a flat-panel LED display and the ability to save controller workstation preferences
  • Offers an easier-to-maintain infrastructure for technicians

STARS is a foundational technology in the FAA-led modernization of the U.S. airspace system. Similar to En Route Automation Modernization at Air Route Traffic Control Centers, TAMR allows TRACON facilities to use Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast data and other technologies that will make flying safer, more efficient, and more predictable.

STARS replaced legacy air traffic control automation equipment at over 200 FAA and Department of Defense (DoD) Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON) facilities, over 600 FAA and DoD Air Traffic Control Tower facilities, and more than 100 systems installed and maintained at STARS support sites including Operational Support Facilities (OSFs) and the FAA Academy airspace.

Last updated: Friday, February 25, 2022