Modern Skies Act proposes $30B for US aviation modernization

The U.S. Senate has introduced the Modern Skies Act, a legislative proposal seeking $30 billion to modernize the nation’s air traffic control (ATC) systems and airport infrastructure. Introduced by Senator Eric Schmitt and supported by Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, the bill aims to address aging technology that contributes to flight delays and cancellations.

The proposed $30 billion would be divided into three $10 billion allocations: one for ATC digital architecture and telecommunications, one for replacing aging runways, facilities, and control towers, and a third to establish a pilot grant program for medium-hub airports serving between 5 million and 25 million passengers annually.

This request builds upon a previously approved $12.5 billion for Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) modernization. Industry groups, including the National Air Traffic Controllers Association and the Air Line Pilots Association, have expressed support for the measure. The push for increased funding follows recent telecommunications failures that caused widespread disruptions at several major Northeast airports.