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FAA's Outdated Tech Sparks Urgent Air Traffic Overhaul

7/19/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is clinging to outdated technology like Windows 95 and floppy disks for air traffic control, impacting a staggering one-third of its systems. Recent disruptions at Newark Airport underscore the urgent need for modernization, as the FAA aims to roll out a new system in the next four years, with costs potentially soaring into the tens of billions.

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Story summary

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is clinging to outdated technology like Windows 95 and floppy disks for air traffic control, impacting a staggering one-third of its systems. Recent disruptions at Newark Airport underscore the urgent need for modernization, as the FAA aims to roll out a new system in the next four years, with costs potentially soaring into the tens of billions.