Council Backs House ATC Modernization Push

The council is part of a broad industry coalition calling for newly proposed air traffic control system (ATC) modernization--a key part of ensuring a growing, efficient U.S. air transportation system.

The Modern Skies Coalition is backing a bill proposed by the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure that would back much-needed updates to air traffic infrastructure, staffing, and funding mechanisms.

"As stakeholders from across the aviation industry, we have sounded the alarm for decades about the challenges created by aging technology and infrastructure, as well as the controller and technician staffing shortages," the coalition said in a statement. "The committee’s approach is a much needed down payment on achieving these benefits for the Americans who fly and ship goods every day. We look forward to working with policymakers to augment this legislation based on a comprehensive proposal from the Department of Transportation to increase investments in these key areas and implement procurement reform that ensures performance and accountability."

The coalition includes nearly 60 organizations representing all facets of aviation. Like many organizations, ATEC's backing of the proposal reflects civil aviation's dependence on efficient, well-maintained infrastructure and a steady flow of highly skilled workers to keep aircraft flying safely. A focused, effective plan for updating ATC would address glaring issues that both constrain growth and divert attention and resources away from other industry priorities.

The coalition will follow the bill's progress as its supporters work to win full House and Senate approval needed to codify the provisions into law.