Duffy and Schmitt Seek $30 Billion for Aviation Upgrades

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and Sen. Eric Schmitt are urging Congress to approve an additional $30 billion for air traffic control and airport upgrades under the proposed Modern Skies Act, building on $12.5 billion Congress approved in 2025 for an initial modernization effort. The new funding is a request, not an appropriation, and would require congressional action. The proposal was introduced by Schmitt, a Missouri Republican, and promoted by Duffy and aviation industry groups at an event at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on September 28. The funding would support updated technology and communications systems, replacement of aging control towers and airport infrastructure improvements. Reports describe the three $10 billion components differently, including how airport projects and technology upgrades would be grouped, so the final allocation is not clear from the available details. Duffy and other supporters say the work is needed to address aging equipment and reduce the risk that failures in communications or other critical systems disrupt air travel.