House Speaker Mike Johnson has backed Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy's call for $50 billion in funding to upgrade the air traffic control system after a recent FAA ground stop. Duffy made the request during a press conference, citing the urgent need for modernization. Johnson noted he is developing a legislative package but did not specify if it would include this funding. The proposal aims to address the aging infrastructure affecting air traffic control nationwide.
Key facts
- Mike Johnson supports Sean Duffy's request for $50 billion in funding.
- The FAA implemented a nearly five-hour ground stop due to system disruptions.
- Congress previously approved $12.5 billion for air traffic control modernization.
- Duffy's proposal includes $10 billion for control towers and telecommunications upgrades.
- There are about 20 legislative days left in the 119th Congress.
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