Introduction:
ATC reform is a long-standing issue that has yet to progress beyond discussions. The lack of progress is frustrating and costly for airlines, the system, the traveling public, and the economy.

Irony of Technological Stagnation:
Despite being a nation known for technological advancements, the US ATC system remains antiquated. America lags behind many other countries in ATC technology. The issue lies not in technological limitations, but in political challenges.

Critical Political Juncture:
The current political situation presents an opportunity to break the logjam and modernize the US ATC system. Expert panels will provide status updates and discuss ways to move forward.

Panelists’ Introductions:
Robin Hayes, CEO of JetBlue, has led the airline’s growth and expansion efforts. Paul Rinaldi, President of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, is a strong advocate for ATC reform and stable funding.

Scene Setter Opening Remarks:
Paul Rinaldi emphasizes the need for stable and predictable funding for the aviation system.

Funding Uncertainty:
Congress is discussing an extension of funding for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) until September 2017. Zika funding is a current issue affecting the funding debate. Other issues, such as Planned Parenthood, Syrian refugees, gun control, and Obamacare, are also impacting stable funding for the aviation system.

Need for Modern Equipment:
The FAA continues to use outdated equipment in air traffic control towers. Modernization efforts are stalled due to bureaucratic processes and lack of stable funding. Controllers are still using paper flight strips and outdated radar systems. The U.S. lags behind other countries in terms of ATC technology.

Impact on Safety and Efficiency:
Outdated equipment can hinder the efficiency and safety of the air traffic control system. Modern equipment could enhance safety and efficiency.

Boy Scout Field Trip Experience:
A Boy Scout field trip to an air traffic control tower highlighted the outdated technology used by controllers. Young people were surprised to see the old equipment, which they had never seen before.

Improving Technology and Infrastructure:
The current air traffic control system faces technological limitations, including the use of outdated vacuum tube facilities. Delays and cancellations are likely to increase due to the inability to keep up with modern technology. Efforts are underway to replace vacuum tube facilities, but the pace of modernization is slow. The FAA should focus on real-time modernization and streamline procurement processes to ensure timely implementation of new technology.

Privatization and Funding:
Privatization is often misconstrued and used as a scare tactic against necessary reforms. Elements of privatization already exist within the FAA, such as private companies running air traffic control towers and providing training services. The focus should be on securing stable and predictable funding rather than debating privatization. Unstable funding leads to delayed modernization and increased reliance on private contractors.

Engaging the Public and Airlines’ Role:
Airlines need to actively engage their customers and the public to raise awareness about the need for a state-of-the-art air traffic control system. Delays and cancellations will worsen if the system is not modernized, jeopardizing the economic value of aviation. Airlines can leverage their customer base to create awareness and mobilize support for modernization efforts.

New York Tracon Staffing Issues:
New York Tracon is facing a critical staffing shortage, with the number of fully certified controllers at a 27-year low. Hiring efforts have improved, but attracting and retaining controllers in busy positions like New York Tracon remains a challenge. Incentives are needed to entice controllers to work in New York Tracon, ensuring the safety and efficiency of air traffic management.

Staffing Crisis in New York Tracon:
The New York Tracon faces a severe staffing crisis due to its high cost of living and challenging work environment. Only the most skilled and experienced controllers can handle the demanding traffic volume and complexity of the airspace. Attracting and retaining qualified personnel is difficult, leading to concerns about maintaining adequate staffing levels.

Reelection Considerations:
The speaker acknowledges the need to balance the desire to recognize the contributions of all ATC facilities with the practical realities of attracting and retaining staff in challenging locations.

Geographic Desirability:
Certain ATC facilities, such as Dallas, Atlanta, Houston, and Southern California Tracon, are highly sought-after due to their desirable living conditions. In contrast, New York Tracon faces challenges in attracting staff due to its high cost of living and limited financial benefits compared to other locations.

Government Restrictions:
Within the constraints imposed by government regulations, it is challenging to address the staffing crisis in New York Tracon. The speaker emphasizes the need for flexible and adaptable solutions to overcome these restrictions.

ATC Reform and Equipment Ownership:
In the speaker’s vision for ATC reform, the status quo and a profit-driven model are both unacceptable. The goal is to find a middle ground that allows for stable and predictable funding, as well as the ability to procure necessary equipment.

Current Problems:
The current air traffic control system is outdated and needs to be modernized. A for-profit model for air traffic control is a problem.

Benefits of a Modernized System:
A modernized system would protect air traffic controllers and keep the system running safely. It would also allow the system to grow and flourish, leading to increased economic activity.

Dedicated Funding Source:
The aviation system has a dedicated funding source from passenger tickets and fuel taxes. This funding should be used to grow the system, not to restrict it.

New Administration:
The transition to a new administration could be an opportunity to make infrastructure a bipartisan issue. This could lead to a renewed focus on modernizing the air traffic control system.

Tying Aviation to the Economy:
Aviation is a significant contributor to the US economy, accounting for 5% of GDP and supporting 11 million jobs. The industry has rebounded from decades of decline and is now a growth sector. Aviation’s strategic value should be recognized and supported for economic prosperity.

ATC Reform as a Priority:
ATC reform should be a top priority for the new administration to address aviation’s challenges. This is a critical opportunity to highlight aviation’s importance and drive positive change.

Shrinking Aviation Due to Inaction:
Inaction on ATC reform and funding will lead to a decline in aviation, impacting jobs, the aviation trust fund, and overall growth. Administrator Huerta has indicated the need to reduce the aviation footprint due to budget constraints.

Privatization of Air Traffic Control Towers:
Currently, 252 air traffic control towers are operated by three private, for-profit companies: Robinson Aviation, Midwest, and Serco. The FAA is not taking on new towers and is relying on these companies to operate them due to resource limitations. Many airports lack air traffic control towers due to the FAA’s inability to provide them.

Delta’s Stance on ATC Reform:
Delta has been known for its opposition to ATC reform. The reasons for their stance should be addressed by Delta directly. Their position can be detrimental to the campaign for ATC reform, potentially hindering progress.

Speakers:
Speaker_01: Robin Hayes, CEO, JetBlue Airways Speaker_02: Moderator Speaker_00: Paul Rinaldi, President, National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA)

Key Points:
ATC reform is a complex issue that involves numerous stakeholders with diverse interests. Airlines, like JetBlue and Alaska, may have specific preferences, but they understand the need for collaboration and compromise to achieve progress. The majority of stakeholders recognize the need for change and modernization in the ATC system. A controlled and thoughtful approach to reform is essential to avoid rushed and ineffective solutions. The United States lags behind other countries like Canada (NAV Canada) in terms of ATC modernization and efficiency. Privatization, as seen in the NAV Canada model, can lead to improvements in equipment, staffing, and overall system performance. Space-based ADS-B technology has the potential to enhance aviation safety, reduce carbon emissions, and enable more efficient flight routes. The NAV Canada model can serve as a reference for the US, but it is important to learn from both its successes and mistakes. The US needs to adapt and build its own system that works for its diverse aviation landscape. The current scenario suggests the possibility of another extension of FAA reauthorization instead of meaningful reform. A new administration and supportive lawmakers could potentially drive positive change and provide the necessary tools and funding for ATC modernization.