What We're Doing

By replacing the current air traffic control system, the FAA will enhance safety in the sky, reduce delays, and unlock the future of air travel. The project also ensures hard-working air traffic controllers have a system they can rely on and one they deserve. To meet the ambitious goal of implementing a brand-new air traffic control system by the end of 2028, the DOT and FAA expedited the procurement process and crafted an innovative, first-of-its-kind contract that will incentivize results and hold the Prime Integrator accountable for any missed deadlines and performance issues.

The FAA will replace core infrastructure including radar, software, hardware and telecommunications networks to manage modern travel. The implementation plan consists of six workstreams: 

Communications

Systems and equipment that allow the FAA to share information among ATC facilities and with pilots 

• Convert copper lines to fiber/wireless and move systems from analog to digital (IP) 
• Replace voice switches to boost reliability of controllers’ communications with pilots and other facilities 
• Update radios to ensure clear, interference-free communication between controllers and pilots

Surveillance

Systems that enable the FAA to track aircraft in the sky and on the ground 

• Replacing aging radars that track aircraft in flight 
• Provide clear tracking of airplanes and vehicles on airport runways, taxiways and ramps at all FAA-owned airports
• Install surface-movement radars to track planes and vehicles on airport runways, taxiways and ramps at the most complex airports.

Automation

Tools that help controllers manage air traffic safely and efficiently  

• Deploy Terminal Flight Data Manager, which replaces paper flight strips and streamlines flight data in airport towers 
• Install Enterprise Information Display Systems, which replaces the floppy drive systems and provides controllers with real-time information across FAA facilities 

Facilities

Physical locations that support air traffic operations 

• Replace some aging Air Route Traffic Control Centers (ARTCCs), which manage high-altitude aircraft 
• Replace Terminal Radar Approach Controls (TRACONs), which handle aircraft approaching, departing from and transiting between airports 
   

Alaska Airspace

Improving aviation safety across the state by putting critical technologies and infrastructure in place 

• ​​​​​Install weather and visibility systems to enable safer operations in Alaska and other isolated locations (AWOS, VWOS, WCAMs) 
• Use programs such as Best Equipped, Better Served/MARS to give priority to aircraft with advanced equipment 

 

Other

Additional systems that support safe and efficient air traffic operations 

• Deploy remote control towers, which allow controllers to manage airport traffic offsite using cameras and sensors 
• Install more terminal training simulators, which provide realistic practice environments to train tower controllers and maintain and improve skills