FAA Launches First Digital Air Traffic Control Towers

The Federal Aviation Administration announced on November 6 that the first digital air traffic control towers in the United States are now operational at Bartow Executive Airport in Florida and Kenai Municipal Airport in Alaska. These systems replace traditional window-based views with high-resolution cameras and digital displays, providing controllers with a continuous 360-degree view of runways, taxiways, and nearby airspace.

Developed using technology from Frequentis, the systems integrate voice, recording, and weather information. The project was funded by the Working Families Tax Cut Act and follows years of testing at the William J. Hughes Technical Center in New Jersey to establish operational standards.

FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford stated the technology provides controllers with better tools and greater visibility to maintain aircraft separation and safety. The agency plans to expand the program to five additional non-towered airports located in Florida, Maryland, North Carolina, and Colorado.