Sharjah24- AFP: Amid growing concerns over flight safety, the Trump administration is set to announce a sweeping upgrade to the US air traffic control system. Transport Secretary Sean Duffy will outline the proposal at a press conference in Washington, describing it as a significant departure from the patchwork solutions of previous administrations.
The modernisation effort, which could cost tens of billions of dollars, comes as the administration seeks parliamentary approval during a period of proposed deep budget cuts to fund tax reforms. The plan faces pressure from within the aviation sector, including the air traffic controllers' union, which has long raised concerns over ageing infrastructure and outdated equipment—some still reliant on obsolete radar systems and floppy disks.
The move follows a recent radar and radio communication failure at Newark Liberty International Airport, where air traffic officials briefly lost contact with aircraft. This incident comes on the heels of a near-miss between a commercial jet and a military helicopter in January near Reagan National Airport.
At a recent Cabinet meeting, Duffy highlighted the urgency of the overhaul, receiving vocal support from Donald Trump, who suggested awarding the contract to a single major firm, such as Raytheon or IBM, to ensure accountability and efficiency.
While full details of the proposal remain undisclosed, the Department of Transport has promoted Thursday’s announcement as a bold step into a "golden age of transportation."
In response to the Newark incident, the Federal Aviation Administration has already begun reducing traffic volume at the airport and increasing support measures, including backup systems and staffing.
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