This summer, millions of Americans will embark on long-awaited vacations, family visits, and unique adventures. As travelers navigate security lines, crowded terminals, and settle into flights, they place their trust in the U.S. aviation system. This trust is well-founded. The aviation system in the U.S. is recognized as the safest globally, relying on multiple layers of protection: skilled pilots, rigorous training, established standards, and effective coordination to mitigate risks.
However, these safety layers face increasing challenges. There is more air traffic, greater complexity, and aging infrastructure. Recent gaps in safety technology exacerbate the pressure. Most passengers remain unaware of the intricate safety mechanisms in place. As pilots, we witness them daily. Our duty is to ensure the safety of each flight, with the authority to delay, cancel, divert, or abort when necessary. We thoroughly evaluate conditions like weather, fuel, and alternate airports before takeoff. The responsibility of aviation safety is significant, especially when the system shows signs of strain.
In recent months, troubling incidents have highlighted this strain. A deadly midair collision near Washington National Airport and a runway accident at LaGuardia are part of a growing list of dangerous near misses. An aging air traffic control system and persistent staffing shortages in air traffic control exacerbate these issues. Each instance is concerning alone, but collectively, they signal a system being overburdened.
‘Warning signs were all there’ before deadly DC mid-air crash, a former air traffic controller states.
Addressing these risks requires continuous investment. Modernizing air traffic control, upgrading outdated equipment, and training an adequate number of controllers are critical steps. Last year, Congress began investing in air traffic control modernization, but sustained, long-term funding is necessary to manage the burgeoning airspace.
Equipping pilots with the latest cockpit technology is crucial. The recent House-passed ALERT Act aims to address the safety gaps highlighted by the 2025 crash near Washington National Airport. However, more comprehensive measures are needed. A critical step would be mandating that all aircraft in busy airspace use standardized real-time tracking and alerting technology to prevent collisions.
Currently, commercial aircraft near major U.S. airports must use ADS-B Out, broadcasting real-time flight data. However, ADS-B In, which displays this information on cockpit monitors, isn’t universally mandated. This oversight becomes more critical when military and government aircraft do not transmit this data like commercial planes.
The proposed solution is an integrated ADS-B In safety suite, enhancing the ALERT Act with broader capabilities. This system, as required by the Senate-passed ROTOR Act, would provide pilots with better situational awareness, highlighting nearby aircraft and offering early alerts to potential collision risks.
Implementing this technology with reduced exemptions for non-commercial aircraft and firm deadlines will enhance safety. The ROTOR Act’s requirements could prevent future tragedies like the Washington midair collision.
With proven technology available, Congress must not settle for partial measures. Updating the system protects the aviation network passengers and shippers rely on. Despite its current safety, the aviation system faces pressure from recent incidents and technological shortcomings.
As summer travel volumes increase, Congress can enhance aviation safety layers by listening to pilots experienced in navigating system pressures. Lawmakers should integrate the best elements of ROTOR and ALERT legislation. Capt. Jason Ambrosi, president of the Air Line Pilots Association, advocates for these improvements to safeguard flight safety for the more than 80,000 airline pilots in the U.S. and Canada.
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