FAA Administrator Calls US Air Traffic Unacceptable, Plans $12.5B Modernization

FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford has condemned the U.S. air traffic control system as "not acceptable," highlighting its outdated technology and severe understaffing. Speaking at the EAA AirVenture air show, Bedford noted that the system has not been modernized in four decades and faces significant technology challenges, with about 3,500 controller vacancies causing mandatory overtime and flight delays. Congress recently approved $12.5 billion for a five-year modernization plan, and the Trump administration is seeking an additional $19 billion to fully address the system's needs. Bedford emphasized the need for leadership improvements, redesign of the national airspace, and fostering a culture of trust and collaboration within the FAA. He also criticized the Biden administration for its lack of interest in aviation issues and pledged transparency by sharing his email with attendees. The FAA aims to upgrade radar, telecommunications, control towers, and increase staffing with new incentives to retain controllers amid concerns raised by recent near-misses and a fatal January crash near Washington, D.C.