Aging air traffic control systems in the US are causing flight delays and cancellations, with some systems taking longer to operate than they did in the 1950s. Delta CEO Ed Bastian said that due to these antiquated systems, it takes longer today to fly from Atlanta to LaGuardia than it did when the airline opened that route.
The US air traffic control system uses outdated computer equipment and radar point-and-shoot systems from the 1960s. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has compared this technology to something seen on the set of Apollo 13, highlighting the need for modernization.
A bipartisan plan to update the air traffic control system was unveiled by Duffy and President Donald Trump in May. The plan includes replacing outdated infrastructure with wireless and satellite technologies at over 4,600 sites, building six new coordination centers, and replacing towers and TRACONs.
However, the estimated cost of this plan is uncertain, ranging from $12.5 billion to $31 billion. Airlines are making adjustments to reduce congestion and improve delays, but Bastian warns that these measures are only a temporary solution.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has stated that its antiquated air traffic control system affects its workforce, highlighting the need for modern safety technology. The airline industry is also experiencing a shortage of 3,500 air traffic controllers, which further emphasizes the need for upgrade.
Source: https://fortune.com/2025/05/16/delta-ceo-air-traffic-control-1950s