# FAA Modernizes Air Traffic Control at LAX

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), supported by a $12.5 billion federal investment, is leading a multi-year modernization of the U.S. air traffic control system with Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) at the forefront of implementation. This initiative includes upgrading infrastructure nationwide with new radios, fiber and satellite communications, and digital control towers. LAX is deploying advanced technology such as a high-tech simulator that reduces controller training time by 30%, aiming to improve operational safety, controller retention, and training efficiency across the national airspace system.

- The FAA and U.S. Department of Transportation are key federal agencies driving this modernization effort, signaling significant procurement opportunities for technology and infrastructure vendors.
- Procurement professionals should note the emphasis on digital tools and simulator technology, indicating demand for advanced training systems and communications equipment.
- This modernization effort reflects a strategic shift toward integrating 21st-century technology into air traffic control, which may influence future contract requirements and vendor qualifications.
- Organizations involved in air traffic control systems, communications infrastructure, and simulation training should evaluate how to align offerings with FAA modernization priorities at LAX and nationwide.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Transportation, Information Technology
**Topics:** Digital Infrastructure, Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** September 28, 2026

### Government Entities
- Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
- U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)

### Key Quotes
> It was a lot of moving around where you couldn't keep your eyes on your traffic compared to this. This, you just look at the screen.
> — Sherry Avery, Air Traffic Manager, LAX

> You can't bring 21st-century talent into a 20th-century system.
> — Chris Rocheleau, Former FAA Administrator

### Sources
- [New Technology Has LAX Leading Air Traffic Control Modernization Effort | KOST 103.5 | LA Local News](https://kost1035.iheart.com/featured/la-local-news/content/2026-09-28-new-technology-has-lax-leading-air-traffic-control-modernization-effort) - KOST 103.5