FAA Could Get $4B for ATC Upgrades in 2027 Budget

White House request calls for a $481 million increase to the agency’s operations account.

Jack Daleo

Friday, April 03, 2026 at 05:00 PM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

Requested funding is intended to support the FAA’s efforts to sustain and modernize the nation’s air traffic control (ATC) system. [Credit: Shutterstock]

Key Takeaways:

The White House's FY27 budget requests an additional $4 billion for the FAA's new Air Traffic Control System (BNATCS) modernization, building on $12.5 billion already approved, plus a $481 million increase for FAA operations.
This funding is intended for a comprehensive upgrade of air traffic control facilities and equipment, including installing new radios, digital voice switches, weather stations, and replacing outdated radars.
The budget also supports an extensive air traffic controller (ATC) hiring surge, aiming to recruit at least 8,900 new ATCs by 2028 through streamlined processes, bonuses, and new training programs.
However, the proposed budget includes a $372 million cut to the Essential Air Service (EAS) program, and concerns persist among officials and Congress regarding the overall sufficiency of funding and accountability for the ambitious modernization plan.

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The White House’s fiscal year 2027 (FY27) budget request calls for $4 billion to fund the FAA’s three-year, brand new air traffic control system (BNATCS) effort, adding to $12.5 billion allocated by Congress last year.

President Donald Trump requested $26.6 billion for the Transportation Department (DOT) overall, a $1.6 billion or 6.3 percent increase over 2026 funding levels. Of that, $4 billion would be set aside for air traffic control (ATC) “facilities and equipment” upgrades.