The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) welcomes the introduction of the Air Traffic Situational Awareness Enhancement Act, which would equip the remaining 90+ air traffic control towers without radar or other surveillance technology with a cost-effective tool that enhances safety for pilots and situational awareness for air traffic controllers.
The bill, introduced today by Sens. Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), would authorize the installation of Airborne Position Reference Tools (APRTs) at federal contract towers without surveillance technology. Air Traffic Controllers can use APRTs, which use ADS-B data to visualize the location of aircraft near an airport.
“America is the birthplace of aviation, and our hardworking air traffic controllers deserve the tools and support to do their jobs safely and effectively. As our airspace grows more congested and complex, far too many controllers do not have access to critical, 21st century technology. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan bill to close that gap, protect American families, and keep our airspace the safest in the world,” said Sheehy.
“AOPA appreciates Senators Sheehy, Merkley, Daines, and Wyden for their leadership in introducing this important aviation safety bill,” said AOPA Senior Vice President of Government Affairs and Advocacy Jim Coon. “Federal contract towers are a vital part of our national airspace, and this legislation closes a longstanding gap. Installing these tools at the airports that currently lack them will give controllers greater situational awareness and enhance safety for pilots across the country.”
“Using ADS-B in these control towers aligns perfectly with the purpose of this technology—safety and airspace efficiency. Senator Sheehy is a general aviation pilot, a strong advocate for aviation safety, and an original supporter of the Pilot and Aircraft Privacy Act that would ensure ADS-B is used for its intended purpose and not as a toll booth for airports and others. Hopefully, Congress can get both of these bills to the President’s desk,” added Coon.
