New Funding for Airport Infrastructure

As part of the One Big Beautiful Bill, the U.S. government has approved more than $12 billion to overhaul the country’s aging air traffic control system. This is being described as the most ambitious modernization effort in decades. The funding will be used to build six new air traffic control centers, starting with the first new en route facility since the 1960s. It also covers upgrades to hundreds of outdated radar systems, improvements to communication networks, and the expansion of collision-prevention systems at airports around the country.

Much of the current infrastructure has been in place for generations, relying on radar and telecom equipment that is well past its intended lifespan. In recent years, equipment failures and staffing shortages have caused flight delays, highlighted safety concerns, and drawn national attention to the fragility of the system. This new investment is aimed at improving safety, reducing delays, and preparing the U.S. to manage growing air traffic volumes—including commercial flights, drones, and other emerging technologies.

In addition to building new control centers and upgrading radar and telecom infrastructure, the funding includes support for new technologies at airports, such as runway-surface alert systems to prevent collisions. Training programs for new air traffic controllers are also being expanded. The U.S. is currently facing a deficit of about 3,500 controllers, and the modernization plan is expected to help with both recruitment and retention.

The Department of Transportation has called this a down payment on a larger effort. Officials estimate that fully updating the national airspace system could cost over $30 billion when all is said and done. This first phase will roll out over the next few years, with much of the work expected to be completed by 2028. For travelers, it likely means fewer delays and a safer, more resilient system, but the benefits will take time to fully materialize.