FAA Launches Nationwide Modernization of Air Traffic Control Infrastructure With a Top Priority Being Telecommunications
Major ATC Overhaul Underway
A recently released Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) fact sheet states that a three-year effort is underway to replace aging air traffic control (ATC) infrastructure through its Brand New Air Traffic Control System (BNATCS) program. The initiative aims to replace telecommunications and hardware networks, radar, and software by the end of 2028.
Tackling Equipment-Related Delays
Equipment failures have led to a sharp rise in flight delays—up roughly 300% compared to the 2010–2024 average. BNATCS plans to reduce disruptions through new high-speed fiber, satellite, and wireless networks, as well as radar, security, tower technologies, and more.
Infrastructure Scope
The program includes:
- 5,170 high-speed network connections (fiber, satellite, wireless)
- 27,625 new radios and 462 digital voice switches
- 612 radars, including 44 new surface radars
- New consolidated Air Route Traffic Control Center
- 89 airports given new Terminal Flight Data Manager tools
The FAA reports it has already replaced more than one-third of legacy copper with digital fiber.
FAA BNATCS Funding and Next Steps
Congress has allocated $12.5 billion to BNATCS, though the FAA estimates an additional $20 billion will be required to complete the program. Regarding priorities, the website states, “All the work is critical to ensure the safe continuity of the NAS. Telecommunications, however, is one of the top priorities since it connects the NAS together.”