House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Rep. Sam Graves (R-Mo.) released a budget reconciliation proposal Tuesday that would allocate $15 billion for the modernization of air traffic control technology.
The funds would go to the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) efforts to improve the nation’s aviation infrastructure by replacing outdated technology, modernizing the air traffic control radar systems and enhancing the hiring of air traffic controllers.
The move comes two months after Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy implemented plans to streamline the air traffic control hiring practices and create a “supercharge” in staffing amid shortages.
“President Trump and Secretary Duffy are committed to the long-delayed modernization of our antiquated air traffic control system to strengthen American aviation safety, and this proposal begins the work of meeting that goal,” Graves said in a statement.
At the start of the year, several aviation accidents, including a deadly collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and two fatal crashes in Alaska and Pennsylvania, have raised concerns about air safety for travelers, pilots and lawmakers alike.
Executive director of the Center for Transportation Jackson Shedelbower called the proposal a “breath of fresh air” for U.S. travelers.
“Modernizing our nation’s aviation infrastructure will ensure that the U.S. maintains its reputation as the global leader in air travel. Congress needs to get a funding package over the finish line so these reforms can get off the ground,” he added.
However, the GOP proposal could raise concerns for environmental advocates.
If implemented, Graves’ plan would eliminate several programs created under former President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, including the FAA’s Alternative Fuel and Low-Emission Aviation Technology Program, and the Federal Highway Administration’s Neighborhood Access and Equity Grants, Environmental Review Implementation Funds and Low-Carbon Transportation Materials Grants.
It would also require electric vehicle owners to pay into the Highway Trust Fund as proposed by Republican senators in February. Graves’ proposal also appropriate $23 billion to the Coast Guard to invest in assets to aid the Trump administration’s effort to crack down on illegal immigration as well as drugs coming into the country.
The House committee is expected to mull over the proposal on Wednesday.
