The Terminal Automation Modernization and Replacement (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).

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 is the common terminal automation platform designed to support 145 FAA TRACON and 432 FAA Air Traffic Control Tower  facilities, and Department of Defense (DoD) Radar Approach Control facilities and DoD towers. STARS support sites include Operational Support Facilities; the FAA Academy; TRACON training and support strings; the FAA William J. Hughes Technical Center for Advanced Aerospace and Raytheon test, development and support strings.