U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS), who chairs the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation’s Subcommittee on Aviation, Space, and Innovation, has announced a hearing to review the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) air traffic control modernization plan. The session is scheduled for December 17 at 2:30 p.m. EST in the Russell Senate Office Building.
The hearing will examine the progress of the FAA’s new air traffic control system following the appointment of Peraton as Prime Integrator for the project. Lawmakers will also discuss how $12.5 billion allocated through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act will support implementation efforts.
“Our air traffic control system is in need of modernization, and Congress made a major investment in improving the system earlier this year and is working to continue investing in this effort through annual appropriations. I look forward to hearing from Administrator Bedford on next steps to implement a new air traffic control system, including the role of the recently announced Prime Integrator Peraton, additional resources needed and the current state of aviation safety,” said Sen. Moran.
Senator Cruz added: “In the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, Congressional Republicans provided the FAA a historic $12.5 billion investment to modernize an aging air traffic control system. This funding will ensure the FAA is equipped to invest in the latest telecommunications infrastructure, prevent outages, and upgrade radar systems that date back to the 1960s. Modernizing air traffic control is essential for keeping American skies safe; Secretary Duffy has already made quick progress – converting one-third of copper wire to more modern fiber, satellite, and wireless telecommunications infrastructure.”
Administrator Bryan Bedford from the FAA is expected to testify at the hearing.
The event will be livestreamed on both the committee website and YouTube. Reporters interested in attending are advised to contact their respective media galleries for RSVP information.
