Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized the urgent need for modernization in the U.S. air traffic control system during a press conference on Wednesday. He specifically called on the Senate to advance the Big Beautiful Bill, which allocates $12.5 billion for critical upgrades to this outdated infrastructure.
Duffy spoke at the Transportation Department, highlighting the problematic situation at Newark International Airport in New Jersey. The facility has faced significant challenges, including radar and telecommunication outages, as a result of outdated equipment and insufficient staffing levels.
“Our air traffic control system is antiquated, with some components being 25 to 40 years old,” Duffy stated. “It is in dire need of a complete rebuild. We need Congress to act on this matter promptly.”
In his remarks, Duffy referred to recent efforts to enhance connectivity. The Transportation Department partnered with Verizon to complete a new fiber optic line between Philadelphia and New York in just 30 days, a crucial step given the challenges faced at Newark Airport. This new infrastructure will replace older copper lines that are slower and more susceptible to failures. Fiber optic lines are essential for transmitting vital radar, radio, and air traffic data effectively.
Recent events at Newark highlighted the consequences of not acting swiftly. The facility experienced three major disruptions that affected the terminal radar approach control, known as TRACON, which led to both telecom outages and a need to reboot radar scopes.
Duffy indicated that a software update was successfully implemented to address these glitches, and Verizon’s installation of the new fiber line was confirmed to be effective. “This is just a glimpse of what we can achieve if Congress provides the necessary funding for a complete overhaul of the system,” he said. “This is a nationwide initiative; we have systems across the country that require attention, but we need congressional action to proceed.”
Duffy reiterated that additional funding might be necessary and urged lawmakers to simplify the permitting process to accelerate project completion. He expressed gratitude for former President Donald Trump’s support of airspace modernization initiatives while criticizing the Biden administration for transferring Newark’s airspace to Philadelphia prior to fiber optic upgrades.
The construction of a new runway at Newark has also contributed to operational delays, as it limits the facility’s capacity to manage air traffic. However, Duffy is optimistic that work will be finalized by June 15, which will help alleviate congestion.
Staffing issues at the Philadelphia TRACON, which oversees Newark’s airspace, further complicate the situation. Currently, only 16 out of 27 positions are filled due to medical and trauma leave, with five of those being supervisory roles.
According to Duffy, there are 16 controllers undergoing training who will be assigned to active duty in the coming months. “Under normal circumstances, we manage 50 to 54 departures per hour at Newark. However, we’ve seen that figure drop to just 28 per hour due to staffing shortages,” he noted.
Looking ahead, Duffy projected that the operational rate will increase to 34 departures per hour once the new runway opens on June 15. A reevaluation will take place in October as more controllers become certified.
There is currently a nationwide deficit of approximately 3,000 air traffic controllers, but Duffy reassured the public that safety remains a top priority. “Some may question the safety of the airspace and the feasibility of air travel. I can unequivocally say that it is safe to fly,” he affirmed.
In light of these developments, Duffy’s commitment to advancing air traffic control modernization will play a crucial role in ensuring the next generation of air travel operates smoothly and efficiently. Addressing the infrastructure challenges now will pave the way for safer skies and a more reliable air transportation system.
