SEC Sean Duffy, the U.S. Secretary of Transportation, has been a vocal advocate for the ‘One, Big, Beautiful Bill,’ an initiative aimed at modernizing the nation’s air traffic control system. With a proposal for $12.5 billion in initial funding, the bill represents a significant investment in transforming outdated infrastructure and ensuring the safety and efficiency of the U.S. airspace. Duffy’s push comes in the context of a growing need to adapt to advancements in aviation technology and the increasing complexity of air traffic.
At the recent Paris Air Show, Duffy emphasized the global competition in aviation technology, noting that countries like France have already made strides in modernizing their systems. He cited France’s reported 34% increase in airspace efficiency as a benchmark urging the U.S. to keep pace. According to Duffy, the current air traffic control system, which relies on outdated equipment such as copper wires and rotary phones, is incapable of managing the demands of the 21st-century aviation landscape.
Duffy points to recent incidents at Newark Airport and the January disaster at DCA as critical examples of the system’s vulnerabilities. These events have underscored the urgent need for upgrades, particularly as the skies are becoming increasingly congested with non-traditional aircraft like drones, air taxis, and commercial spacecraft. He argues that the existing infrastructure is not only outdated but also a hindrance to innovation and efficiency in air travel.
The initiative has gained significant support from the aviation industry, including major airlines and over 50 aviation organizations that have joined the Modern Skies Coalition. In May, 10 airline executives endorsed the plan in a joint letter to Congress, emphasizing the importance of upgrading the air traffic control system to maintain the safety and efficiency of U.S. airspace. The letter highlighted the critical need to invest in modern technologies to ensure that aviation remains the safest mode of transportation in the United States.
Duffy criticized the previous administration for its focus on identity politics over infrastructure, arguing that the Trump administration’s approach is focused on innovation, safety, and building the infrastructure required for the future. He emphasized that the current system is showing its age and that the investment in modernizing the air traffic control system is essential to keep up with the demands of contemporary aviation. With the Senate considering the bill, Duffy’s call to action highlights the importance of addressing this critical issue promptly to ensure the continued safety and efficiency of American air travel.