Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy says a "big" FAA software announcement is coming soon and President Donald Trump is expected to unveil details in the weeks ahead. The notice arrives as millions travel for Labor Day weekend, with airports and highways forecast to be busiest in the afternoon and early evening. Domestic bookings are up 9% year‑over‑year and airfares to popular destinations have climbed nearly 20%. The FAA's multi‑billion‑dollar modernization aims to replace aging systems but isn't expected to finish until 2028, and additional funding may be needed.
FAA to Reveal Major Air-Traffic Software Update After Labor Day, Duffy Says
FAA air traffic overhaul update coming after Labor Day travel: Duffy
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy says travelers should expect more details soon about a major reconstruction of the United States' air-traffic control software, which President Donald Trump is expected to unveil in the coming weeks.
"This has never been done before," Duffy wrote on X.
A U.S. Department of Transportation spokesperson told NewsNation that, "As the secretary mentioned, we'll have an exciting announcement soon on our ongoing work to modernize our skies and reshape how the airspace is managed." Officials say the announcement will outline new software and next steps for the broader FAA modernization effort.
The timing comes as millions of Americans travel for Labor Day weekend. Travelers should expect crowded airports and busy highways Monday as families finish summer vacations; transportation experts predict the heaviest congestion in the afternoon and early evening.
Despite higher costs, demand for travel remains robust. Domestic trip bookings are up about 9% year‑over‑year, while airfares to popular destinations have risen nearly 20%. Hotel and gasoline prices have also increased, putting additional pressure on holiday travel.
Meanwhile, the Federal Aviation Administration is developing a plan to replace the aging technology that underpins the nation's air-traffic control system. The multi-billion-dollar overhaul is part of the FAA Modernization Plan and is designed to reduce delays, improve communications and phase out legacy equipment officials say has contributed to disruptions.
Officials caution that upgrades to communications systems and operational software will be gradual; the program is not expected to be completed until 2028. President Trump indicated additional funding may be required to support parts of the modernization effort. The coming weeks are likely to bring more specifics about the software rollout, funding needs and an expected timeline from the administration.
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