Register

ATC Privatization: It’s Back

The White House proposal focuses on ATC as just one of the DOT reforms needed. White House photo
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The White House has reintroduced a plan to separate the nation's air traffic control (ATC) system from the FAA, proposing its spin-off to a non-profit organization to enable modernization, improve governance, and insulate it from political influence.
  • This proposal follows a recently withdrawn attempt and has immediately met strong opposition from major aviation industry groups, who label it a "failed proposal" and advocate for focusing on a long-term FAA bill addressing safety, modernization, and NextGen advancement.
  • Despite the backing from the White House, the plan lacks implementation details, and proponents acknowledge significant political hurdles, particularly from congressional members hesitant to cede control over the ATC system's funding and policy.
See a mistake? Contact us.

In late April, much of the industry began breathing a sigh of relief that House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Bill Shuster’s (R-Pa.) last minute attempt to reintroduce a plan to separate the nation’s air traffic control system from the FAA’s core infrastructure role was pulled by the Pennsylvania Congressman.

Rob Mark

Rob Mark is an award-winning journalist, business jet pilot, flight instructor, and blogger.

Ready to Sell Your Aircraft?

List your airplane on AircraftForSale.com and reach qualified buyers.

List Your Aircraft
AircraftForSale Logo | FLYING Logo
Pilot in aircraft
Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox.

SUBSCRIBE