Updates to the air traffic control system, as per the Transportation Secretary, will require time, assuring there's no compromise in safety guarantees.
Kickin' it with FOX Biz's Grady Trimble, Secy of Transportation, Sean Duffy, shares the deets on the long-awaited air traffic control system revamp.
According to Secy Duffy, the gravest hurdle delaying the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) from upgrading its outdated air traffic control system is the daunting task of transitioning to a fresh system.
"Time's tickin' away," Duffy warns in an exclusive sit-down with Grady Trimble, pointing out that constant complaints about system glitches and breakdowns will persist until the overhaul is complete. "I ain't got a decade on my hands."
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Duffy reveals the new air traffic control system is slated for completion within three to four years. (Chris Kleponis/CNP/Bloomberg/Getty Images)
Duffy emphasizes the complexity of balancing aviation safety while building a brand new system alongside the old one. He underscores the importance of a phased and meticulously planned transition to minimize risks. "I ain't gamblin' with safety during this switcheroo. It'll be meticulously timed, tested, and choreographed."
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Duffy states that resolving the air traffic control issue—a bipartisan challenge worsened by inadequate equipment and staffing shortages—requires decisive, united action from politicians. Some Dems, like House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), have accused the White House of "destroyin' the FAA."
"You can't tear down the air traffic control system in 100 days," Duffy insists. "It's been decayin' over years. The last administration did nuthin'."
Regarding managing the new air traffic control system, Duffy shared that businesses will have the opportunity to put in bids. Verizon, AT&T, and defense contractor Raytheon are potential suitors, according to Duffy.
Although some of these companies have already worked with the FAA, Duffy envisions a renewed dynamic in communication. He expects only top-tier performance from the entities they choose to team up with.
"When you rope in CEOs and upper management, problems get tackled lightning-fast," Duffy asserts.
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Although air traffic control troubles have made headlines recently, such as at New Jersey's Newark Liberty International Airport where air traffic controllers lost radar and radio communication with aircraft, Duffy asserts that the industry remains secure. There are "hundreds of minor issues each week" that often avoid public attention, he explains.
"People get frightened, but again, we've got backups to that," he assures. "You'll find weekly blips in the system."
Even the Pentagon temporarily halted military helicopter flight operations near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport due to near misses. In January, 67 people perished when a Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines flight clashed in the same airspace.
"Let's find a solution to guarantee travelers' safety at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, while still securin' our nation's capital," Duffy suggests.
Enterin' the busy summer travel season, Duffy warns travelers of potential delays and cancellations due to congestion. His number one concern remains ensuring passengers' safe arrival at their destinations.
"In case we spot any airspace issues, we'll slow things down," he says.
"Secretary Duffy foresees the new air traffic control system, which will be managed by businesses through a bidding process, ensuring aviation safety while simultaneously undergoing a phased and meticulous transition. He emphasizes that the system's complexity necessitates careful planning to minimize risks."
"Regarding the potential bidders for managing the new air traffic control system, Secretary Duffy mentions Verizon, AT&T, and defense contractor Raytheon as potential suitors, highlighting the need for top-tier performance from the entities chosen to work with the FAA."
