Transportation Watchdog Echoes Secretary Duffy’s Call for More Funding to Modernize America’s Skies

Arlington, VA (July 16, 2025)—Today, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy appeared before the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee to discuss the Department’s ongoing efforts to keep America’s transportation systems safe, modern, and efficient. During the hearing, Secretary Duffy stressed the importance of continued investment in modernizing America’s outdated air traffic control systems.

Secretary Duffy’s remark comes off the heels of the recent passage of the budget reconciliation package, which includes $12.5 billion for aviation modernization efforts. According to a 2024 report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO), 51 of the nation’s 138 air traffic control systems are considered “unsustainable.” 

While the initial investment is a meaningful start, industry experts say full modernization could require twice that amount—with some estimates nearing $30 billion. In today’s hearing, Secretary Duffy stated it will take “$31.5 billion to do the full project.” 

“The comments made by Secretary Duffy today are a clear sign that upgrading America’s air traffic control systems remain a priority for the Trump administration,” said Jackson Shedelbower, executive director of the Center for Transportation Policy (CTP). “The investment included in the budget reconciliation package is a bulky down payment, but Congress must follow through with additional installments to finish the job.”

Efforts to upgrade our nation’s aviation systems enjoy bipartisan backing. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer recently stated that “we have 1990 technology being used in 2025,” while Joe Biden proposed a plan to modernize air traffic control facilities during his time as President. 

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