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Aviation Subcommittee Chairman Troy E. Nehls delivered opening remarks at a hearing focused on the infrastructure and staffing of the United States air traffic control system. The hearing, titled "America Builds: Air Traffic Control System Infrastructure and Staffing," addressed concerns about the sustainability of the current system.
Chairman Nehls emphasized the need for modernization, stating, "The reason that we are here today is that, in its current form, this country’s air traffic control system is unsustainable." He noted that experts have been highlighting these issues for decades.
Since 1995, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) has classified efforts to modernize the air traffic control (ATC) system as "high-risk." Despite attempts to address these issues over the years, progress has been insufficient. Nehls remarked, "We’re not much closer to a solution than we were in 1995."
A recent GAO study revealed that 51 out of 138 ATC systems are "unsustainable," while another 54 are "potentially unsustainable." Of these systems, 58 have critical impacts on safety and efficiency. Nehls stated that these findings are unacceptable for a nation considered a leader in aviation safety.
The chairman acknowledged challenges faced by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), including limited budgets and outdated systems. He also recognized the technical difficulties involved in modernizing a system that operates continuously throughout the year.
Nehls expressed optimism about potential improvements with support from Congress and other stakeholders. He mentioned support from President Trump and Secretary Duffy for investments in air traffic control facilities and technologies as an encouraging sign.
In conclusion, Chairman Nehls thanked witnesses for their participation and looked forward to their testimony on addressing significant challenges facing the aviation industry.