Seeks to Complement Trump Plans to Improve FAA Systems

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Aviation Subcommittee Chairman Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) are seeking input from their colleagues in the Senate and across the aviation industry as the Committee looks to assist Trump administration efforts to modernize America’s air traffic control system and make air travel efficient, reliable, and safe for all users. As part of their request for policy priorities and proposals, Sens. Cruz and Moran are seeking input and recommendations regarding air traffic control infrastructure, technology, and workforce as well as proposals to improve the management of the nation’s airspace.

Upon soliciting legislative proposals, Sen. Cruz said:

“For over a decade, I’ve fought for policies that would greatly update an air traffic control system that has fallen out of date and, in too many cases, into disrepair. Our nation’s aviators depend on archaic technology that is over 50 years old. That should be unacceptable to everyone involved in our national aerospace system. Recent technology failures and accidents highlight the urgent need to act to improve our air traffic control system, and I applaud President Trump and Secretary Duffy for making it clear that significant changes are a top priority. I am hopeful that we will see a renewed and shared commitment to collaboration from entities across the aviation industry, Congress, and all of government to improve air traffic control infrastructure, technology, and workforce.”

Sen. Moran said:

“Safety is an ever-evolving process, and recent aviation tragedies require us to take stock of our air traffic control systems, facilities, and equipment and understand what critical updates are needed to modernize our technology and keep our busy and expansive airspace safe for travelers, our military, and all other users. I look forward to learning from tech experts and providers, industry leaders, and other stakeholders on ways we can improve the systems and technologies that coordinate air traffic and ensure the safety of the flying public.”

BACKGROUND:

In February, Sen. Cruz delivered remarks at the Aero Club of Washington stressing the need for Congress to review the outdated state of the U.S. air traffic control system, highlighting inefficiencies, staffing shortages, and technological and structural deficiencies that detract from a well-functioning air navigation service provider. Sen. Cruz highlighted that the Commerce Committee would be pursuing solutions, as well as seeking input from stakeholders regarding air traffic control modernization.

“The Commerce Committee will also lead the way in overhauling the air traffic control system.  I know this has been a controversial topic for many in this room – particularly within the last ten years.  I’ve spoken with many of you over the years.  

“In an era of AI and automation, is the current ATC system really the best we can do?  

“When it comes to air traffic control – it all comes down to people, facilities, and equipment.  We need to get each of those right, while protecting the rights of users to fly in our airspace.  We need to modernize our air traffic control system, which includes investing in more advanced technology.  To get that technology deployed, we will need to look at how the FAA manages the Air Traffic Organization and whether reforms need to be made in how it is managed, financed, how procurement works, and potentially other areas, too. 

“The time of doing the same thing again and again and expecting different results is over.  In Fiscal Year 2024, the air traffic control system netted 36 new controllers after retirements and attrition.  Our nation deserves an air traffic system that isn’t based on World War II technologies and plagued by vacancies[…]

“I intend to engage with users of all shapes and sizes to determine what the air traffic control of the future should look like and how it should work, for all users.  The U.S. airspace is open to all — as it should be.  I will honor that key principle while ensuring all facets of aviation remain robust and can operate efficiently.  That requires a sustainable air traffic control model.”

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