The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has embarked on testing Starlink satellite internet terminals in a strategic move to modernize its air traffic control technology. Currently, the FAA is conducting tests at its facility in Atlantic City, New Jersey, and at non-safety critical sites in Alaska. This initiative represents a significant step in the FAA's ongoing efforts to upgrade its systems, a process that began during the previous administration. Meanwhile, the White House has directed inquiries regarding Elon Musk's recent claims about air travel safety to the FAA for comment.
The FAA remains tight-lipped about ongoing certification work. However, executives from major airlines have voiced their perspectives, indicating that they do not perceive the FAA's infrastructure as an immediate safety risk. Airlines for America, an organization representing major U.S. carriers, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing their confidence in the safety of current air travel systems.
"The government needs to do the same in an organized and timely way." — Airlines for America
The FAA has assured that it has retained staff essential for performing safety-critical functions. Alongside, Verizon has been actively involved in replacing outdated air traffic control technology. The Washington Post recently reported that the FAA may be on the verge of canceling a contract with Verizon for new communication technology, potentially shifting the responsibility to Musk's Starlink.
"Our Company is working on building the next generation system for the FAA which will support the Agency's mission for safe and secure air travel." — Verizon
"We are at the beginning of a multi-year contract to replace antiquated, legacy systems. Our teams have been working with the FAA's technology teams and our solution stands ready to be deployed. We continue to partner with the FAA on achieving its modernization objectives." — Verizon
"The FAA systems currently in place are run by L3Harris and not Verizon." — Verizon
Concerns have been raised regarding Elon Musk's dual role as CEO of SpaceX and his extensive involvement in the Trump administration. Some Democrat lawmakers have expressed unease over potential conflicts of interest, given Musk's potential involvement in supplying technology to one of his regulators.
"While I support efforts to modernize our air traffic control system and improve aviation safety, this decision raises conflicts-of-interest concerns, given Elon Musk's dual position as Chief Executive Officer of SpaceX and wide-ranging role in the Trump administration." — Sen. Ed Markey
The tragic collision last month between an American Airlines regional jet and an Army Black Hawk helicopter, resulting in 67 fatalities, has intensified scrutiny over air travel safety. Although airline executives do not currently see a direct safety threat from the FAA's infrastructure, lawmakers are demanding comprehensive explanations for staffing reductions.
"At a minimum, we need to know why this sudden reduction was necessary, what type of work these employees were doing, and what kind of analysis FAA conducted – if any – to ensure this would not adversely impact safety, increase flight delays or harm FAA operations." — Sen. Tammy Duckworth