Air Traffic Control System Faces Funding Uncertainty Amid Shutdown
The US government shutdown is reviving a debate over air traffic control privatization, with lawmakers questioning the FAA’s dependence on annual congressional funding. Advocates argue that an independent corporation could manage air navigation services more efficiently, but general aviation groups remain strongly opposed. The Department of Transportation plans to use $12.5 billion in modernization funding to accelerate technology upgrades and controller hiring. However, the issue remains uncertain, with no clear resolution in sight.