U.S. Senator Jerry Moran, chairman of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation, Space, and Innovation, led a hearing with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Bryan Bedford to review the FAA’s plan for modernizing air traffic control (ATC). The session follows Congress’ allocation of $12.5 billion for ATC modernization through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and the recent appointment of Peraton as Prime Integrator for integrating the new ATC system.
Senator Moran referenced a recent accident: “On January 29th, American Airlines Flight 5342, traveling from Wichita, Kansas, to Washington, D.C., collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter, seconds before its scheduled landing at Reagan Washington National Airport, killing 67 people,” said Sen. Moran. “This tragic accident has forced Congress and the FAA to reckon with no longer just sustaining our air traffic control system but actually taking steps to modernize it.”
He continued by outlining congressional action: “In July, this Congress provided $12.5 billion as a down payment toward ATC modernization,” said Sen. Moran. “These funds were authorized for technology upgrades, new ATC facilities, runway and surface safety systems, advanced training and workforce capabilities, and other resources that build upon last year’s reauthorization. The FAA has made meaningful steps toward modernization. However, there is much still to do. Mr. Bedford, this committee has and will continue to rely on your agency to be a proactive and responsive partner in these efforts.”
Moran also recognized families affected by the accident: “I would like to acknowledge the families of the victims of this horrific tragedy that have joined us for today’s hearing. Thank you for your tireless advocacy on behalf of your loved ones.”
He highlighted ongoing investigations: “While Congress and the public await the findings of the National Transportation Safety Board’s investigation into the midair collision, we are here today to continue the long overdue work of modernizing American airspace.”
Senator Moran noted previous legislative efforts: “Last year, Congress passed the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 which includes requirements to increase controller hiring, modernize ground-based infrastructure, and provides for improved air safety data and cybersecurity standards.” He added that following further appropriations approval by his subcommittee after reconciliation was signed into law in July,“the Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee…unanimously approved providing FAA $5 billion – a record amount – to continue its efforts to modernize air traffic control.”
Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy had earlier announced an overhaul plan requiring broad industry cooperation.“The scale and scope of this comprehensive modernization is enormous,” said Sen. Moran.“It has and will continue to require an industry-wide mobilization and public-private partnerships…To that end…a Prime Integrator…Peraton” was appointed.
The hearing addressed how initial funds have been used so far by FAA,“additional resources…the FAA needs…and how Peraton will fit into enhancing…the safety of national airspace,” according to Senator Moran.
Moran emphasized regulatory updates:“Modernization is more than replacement…of infrastructure: it also requires modernizing statutes,rules,and regulations…” In response to January’s collision he introduced legislation mandating military aircraft use ADS-B technologies critical for flight tracking; soon after,the committee approved related legislation—the ROTOR Act—to address gaps in air safety.
He detailed further legislative measures:“Last week,I joined Chairman Cruz,Ranking Member Cantwell,and Ranking Member Duckworth,in calling on Congress to amend…the National Defense Authorization Act” regarding air safety standards recommended by NTSB.“I have also introduced an amendment…to require military aircraft operate with ADS-B Out,and prohibit service secretaries from delegating waiver authority.This effort is backstop if we cannot move…the ROTOR Act across…the finish line.I remain committed…”
Senator Moran closed with commitment:“I remain fully committed…changing law…and implementing recommendations…of NTSB following their final report.Administrator Bedford,I look forward…to discussing what…the FAA is doing right now,to keep our skies safe…”
The Senate Commerce, Science,and Transportation Committee oversees legislation involving commerce science,and transportation matters during congressional sessions as outlined on its official website. It operates under leadership including senators from both parties,and serves as a standing committee within Washington,D.C.’s Russell Senate Office Building.
