San Antonio International Airport is set to receive roughly $30 million in federal funding to modernize its air traffic control systems. The money comes from the Working Americans Tax Cut Act, a federal investment approved by Congress that allocates $12.5 billion nationwide for airport technology upgrades.
What the upgrades include
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy explained that the airport will replace its aging copper wiring with fiber‑optic cables, install new radios, and introduce electronic flight strips that will replace the paper strips controllers currently use. The electronic strips allow controllers to track flights digitally as they move from one sector to another.
Additional equipment includes new voice switches, advanced displays, upgraded radar, and surface‑awareness systems. These tools give controllers clearer communication with pilots and better visibility of aircraft on the ground, especially during low‑visibility conditions such as fog or heavy rain.
Safety benefits
According to Duffy, the newer radios provide “crisper” communication, reducing the chance of misunderstandings between the tower and pilots. Surface‑awareness technology helps controllers pinpoint the exact location of aircraft on the tarmac, which can prevent ground collisions. Duffy cited a recent incident at LaGuardia Airport as an example of how improved tools could have averted a near‑miss.
U.S. Representative Monica De La Cruz, who represents Texas’ 15th Congressional District, praised the funding, saying it will allow controllers to add more safety measures for everyday passengers.
Timeline and future plans
The upgrades are expected to be completed by the end of 2028. Duffy noted that further software improvements are under development to help controllers manage weather, delays, and increasing air traffic, though not all software upgrades have yet been approved by Congress.
These enhancements align with broader federal efforts to modernize the nation’s air traffic control infrastructure, ensuring that the United States maintains a safe and efficient aviation system for both travelers and airlines.
Original reporting: San Antonio, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
