Air Traffic Situational Awareness Enhancement Act

Key Points

• This bill requires the FAA to buy and install modern aircraft tracking tools at smaller, contract-operated air traffic control towers that currently lack them. These tools help controllers see exactly where planes are to help prevent accidents.
• The FAA would have one year from enactment to purchase and set up these systems. The bill also requires a training program so controllers at contract towers know how to use the new equipment properly.
• Airports that already spent their own money to install this safety equipment before the FAA acts would be reimbursed by the federal government, ensuring early adopters aren't penalized financially.
• The bill has bipartisan support, introduced by Senators Sheehy and Daines (Republicans from Montana) along with Senators Merkley and Wyden (Democrats from Oregon), suggesting the issue crosses party lines.
• The legislation specifically targets contract towers that lack Standard Terminal Automation Replacement Systems (STARS) or other situational awareness tools, closing a technology gap between major airports and smaller regional ones.