U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy is set to announce an ambitious plan to modernize the country’s air traffic control (ATC) system, aimed at tackling outdated technology and addressing a significant shortage of air traffic controllers. The proposal, which calls for tens of billions of dollars in funding from Congress, includes plans to replace aging radar systems and air traffic control terminals and modernize runway safety technology.

The push for a major overhaul comes in response to several recent aviation safety incidents, including a deadly collision between an Army helicopter and an American Airlines flight in January. The current air traffic control system relies heavily on outdated infrastructure, such as floppy disks and older radar systems, which have become increasingly difficult to maintain.

With the FAA facing a shortfall of approximately 3,500 air traffic controllers, Duffy’s plan also focuses on recruitment and training to address the staffing crisis. The initiative, backed by President Donald Trump, seeks to upgrade to more advanced technologies, such as fiber-optic and satellite-based systems, to improve safety and efficiency in the nation’s airspace.