NATCA Bookshelf

16 NATIONAL AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLERS ASSOCIATION Modern Skies Coalition – Modernizing America's Air Traffic Control System NATCA has long been a national leader in advocating for the staffing and modernization of the U.S. air traffic control (ATC) system. We've joined forces with more than 50 industry stakeholders as part of the Modern Skies Coalition, a broad alliance of labor, industry, and advocacy organizations united behind one urgent message: our air traffic control system must be staffed and equipped for the future. Why NATCA is Involved For more than a decade, NATCA has been sounding the alarm about two critical challenges facing the National Airspace System (NAS): a severe shortage of certified air traffic controllers and an aging physical infrastructure that relies on outdated technology. While the safety of our system remains strong thanks to the skill and dedication of our workforce, the current state of the system is unsustainable. Controllers are working in facilities still relying on World War II-era technology including radar systems, copper wiring, and even floppy disks. Every day, we see the inefficiencies and vulnerabilities caused by equipment that should have been retired years ago. The problems are not just inconveniences. They're a strain on staffing, a drag on efficiency, and a risk to the system's long-term health. NATCA joined the Modern Skies Coalition to amplify our voice, align with partners who share our priorities, and make it clear to Congress and the public: the time for action is now. The Coalition's Goals The Modern Skies Coalition is united behind two primary goals: • Modernizing Infrastructure and Technology: Replacing outdated systems with modern, resilient, and efficient technologies will require significant federal investment. But ensuring the safety and efficiency of our airspace is worth every penny. Modern equipment will reduce costs, improve safety, and allow our system to handle growing passenger and cargo demand. • Ensuring Adequate Staffing: The benefits of new technology cannot be fully realized without a well-trained, fully staffed workforce. We need hiring and training processes that keep pace with retirements and demand, ensuring that every sector of the NAS is safely managed. Today, 92% of the FAA's Facilities and Equipment budget goes to repairs and maintenance, just keeping outdated systems running. That's a poor use of taxpayer dollars when we could be investing in technology that strengthens safety and reduces long-term costs. The consequences of inaction are already visible: delays, inefficiencies, and strain on both controllers and the traveling public. Without modernization, these challenges will grow as air travel and cargo volumes continue to set records. Why This Matters to Aviation Safety Professionals Modernizing the ATC system is not just about upgrading machines, it's about creating a safer, more efficient workplace for the professionals who manage our skies. It's about reducing the Spo tl ight

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