Federal Aviation Authority leader points to outdated air traffic control technology as an issue in need of improvement

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has taken a significant step towards modernizing its outdated air traffic control system. In a recent development, Leidos, a leading integrator company, has applied for the modern upgrade, with the deadline for responses to the solicitation set for August 10, 2025.

The call for modernization comes after a series of concerns about airplane safety, following the mid-air collision of an American Airlines flight and an Army helicopter in January over the Potomac River, resulting in 67 fatalities.

Bryan Bedford, the new FAA administrator, has emphasized the need for modernization, stating that the FAA needs to move from a decade-long cycle of modernization to an annual speed, similar to an iPad iteration. This is crucial, as the FAA's current system is experiencing frequent failures, including circuits breaking, lines getting cut up, copper wire spraying, and switches that no longer work and can't be manufactured.

To achieve this digital transformation, the FAA needs to become digital, but Bedford acknowledges that the process is "easier said than done." He described the current draft as an "amalgamation" of a lengthy process, and the administration wants to "get a marker in the ground" and "start moving."

Responses to the agency's solicitation for an integrator are due on September 21. Bedford stressed the importance of getting a good rule out quickly and then iterating from there. He is determined to prioritize modernization, with the aim of making the National Airspace System (NAS), which contributes roughly 5% to 6% of the country's gross domestic product via commercial airlines, cargo, launch vehicles, and others, more efficient and reliable.

At a House Transportation Committee hearing, it was noted that the FAA was still using floppy disks in some instances, underscoring the need for modernization. The proposed rule has been years in the making and is the primary topic of a recent event. Comments on the proposal are open until Oct. 6.

Beyond air traffic control, Bedford has also addressed a proposed rule by the FAA to create a regulatory framework for drone use, including package delivery, aerial surveying, recreation, and flight testing. Michael Kratsios, White House Office of Science and Technology Policy Director, called the drone rule "critical to unleashing this technology."

Kratsios pointed out the cumbersome process of waivers the drone industry has had to navigate to operate, and said the proposed regulation is "finally an opportunity" to set up a process in regulation. The National Transportation Safety Board is currently investigating the crash that sparked the call for modernization, and the FAA's modernization efforts are expected to address these safety concerns moving forward.

Bryan Bedford was confirmed as FAA administrator mostly along party lines in July. His career in the aviation sector, previously as CEO of Republic Airways, has prepared him well for this role. He is committed to modernizing the FAA and NAS, and his leadership is expected to drive significant changes in the coming years.