Oversight Hearing – Federal Aviation Administration

The House Appropriations Committee held an oversight hearing on September 16, 2026, featuring testimony from Brian Bedford, Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The hearing focused heavily on the FAA's ongoing efforts to modernize the national air traffic control system, including the deployment of a $12.5 billion budget infusion from the previous year's reconciliation package and a $22.4 billion fiscal year 2027 budget request. Key procurement topics included the replacement of legacy copper telecommunications with fiber optics, radar replacement programs, and the development of new automation platforms such as the Common Automation Platform and the Strategic Management of Airspace Routes and Trajectories (SMART) system. The FAA also discussed workforce challenges, including hiring and training over 2,000 new air traffic controllers annually, and infrastructure investments at airports, including grant programs for small and midsize airports and contract tower expansions. Committee members raised concerns about supply chain issues, funding sufficiency, and the need for clear long-term modernization plans. The FAA committed to transparency and collaboration with Congress to ensure efficient use of funds and timely completion of modernization projects. Additionally, discussions touched on commercial space operations, drone integration, and environmental compliance related to airport infrastructure.