Rocheleau Asks for $22 Bil to Modernize the National Airspace System

Acting FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau recently took the stage to present the agency’s budget request for fiscal year 2026. His $22 billion ask, on top of the pre-allocated $5 billion, would support some much-needed technology upgrades, a hiring supercharge, and several other projects.

“The FAA’s mission is to provide the safest, most efficient aerospace system in the world,” stated Rocheleau. “To fulfill this ongoing responsibility, the President’s Budget invests in the future of the National Airspace System (NAS) by requesting $22.0 billion in the 2026 fiscal year.”

This, on top of the $5 billion already granted to the FAA in advance annual appropriations, gives the agency a $27 billion commitment to push it through the coming year and, hopefully, make the national airspace stronger along the way.

The budget request for FY 2025, submitted in March 2024, asked for $21.8 billion to fund air traffic control hiring and training, sustain the National Airspace System, and improve aviation safety, efficiency, and infrastructure.

Many of the agency’s goals are carrying over into FY 2026, but with an expanded focus on modernization. The FAA Facilities and Equipment sector is seeking $4 billion, nearly 26 percent over the FY 2025 request, to “address emerging challenges and technological advancements while preserving the integrity of long-standing capabilities.” $1 billion of this would go to Project LIFT, transitioning the FAA Telecommunications Infrastructure to more up-to-date tech.

Another $450 million of the Facilities and Equipment budget would go towards kick-starting the Radar Replacement Program. This has been an area of concern for years, especially in the wake of several technology outages that have left behind extensive flight delays and cancellations.

“This budget request upholds our commitment to maintain the safest airspace in the world by investing in our Nation’s infrastructure and workforce to meet the challenges of tomorrow. We look forward to your support in ensuring the United States remains a global leader in aviation,” Rocheleau concluded.

FMI: www.faa.gov