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Following several recent aviation accidents, a coalition of U.S. aviation and aerospace groups is calling on Congress to modernize the nation’s air traffic control (ATC) system. The coalition expressed shared grief over the accidents and a commitment to preventing future tragedies.
The group emphasized the need for a world-class ATC system. They urged Congress and the Administration to collaborate on improvements to operational safety and efficiency in the National Airspace System (NAS).
Key priorities include supporting air traffic controller hiring and training, streamlining procurement processes, and reforming the Airport & Airway Trust Fund (AATF) budget.
Importantly, the coalition stated its opposition to privatizing air traffic control services, believing it would divert resources from necessary investments and reforms.
The coalition specifically requested emergency funding for critical ATC technology, infrastructure improvements, and controller staffing and training. They also asked Congress to guide the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in modernizing existing NAS elements and adopting new procurement methods for advanced technology.
Furthermore, they advocated for improved financial mechanisms, such as multiyear budgeting, to utilize AATF funds for enhanced safety.
This call to action comes after a recent fatal commercial aviation accident near Washington, D.C., where a regional jet and an Army helicopter collided. Another incident involved a regional jet crashing at Toronto Pearson International Airport, resulting in injuries but no fatalities.