FAA opens search for new unified US air traffic automation platform 

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has begun a new phase in its long-running effort to modernize the US’s air traffic control infrastructure, issuing a request for information (RFI) for what it calls the Common Automation Platform (CAP). The initiative is aimed at replacing the two major systems now used to manage flights in US airspace with a single automated system. 

The FAA says it is seeking industry input on how the agency could transition away from technologies known as En Route Automation Modernization (ERAM) and the Standard Terminal Automation Replacement System (STARS). ERAM is the primary tool used at air route traffic control centers, while STARS supports controllers at airport towers and terminal radar approach control facilities. Together, the systems form the backbone of the current ATC automation network. 

According to the FAA, CAP would unite these functions under a single platform that supports both en route and terminal operations. The agency said it is looking for ideas on technical approaches, system architecture, and integration strategies that could support a modern system capable of handling the growing mix of commercial flights, general aviation, and new entrants such as air taxi operations in US airspace. 

The RFI outlines several potential paths, including rebuilding the existing automation systems, extending elements of their architecture, or adopting a platform already in use by another air navigation service provider. The FAA said it is open to hybrid concepts as well. Responses must describe how proposed solutions would work across domestic and oceanic airspace, support the transition from current systems, and ensure the system continues to provide the information controllers need without interruption. 

The agency is also asking vendors to address topics such as system reliability, cybersecurity protections, long-term maintenance, and how a new platform could scale with future traffic growth. Submissions are due December 19, 2025. 

The FAA’s push for CAP comes as the Department of Transportation continues a broader effort to update infrastructure across the National Airspace System. In recent months, the agency has released separate requests for information related to runway safety lighting technology and upgrades to traffic flow management tools. It has also asked industry to provide concepts for a “prime integrator” that would oversee the buildout of an entirely new automation framework. 

FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said earlier in 2025 that modern tools are needed to support safe and efficient operations. The agency has pointed to aging equipment across multiple facilities and noted that many underlying systems were designed decades ago. 

The FAA said it will evaluate industry responses before releasing further details on next steps. The post FAA opens search for new unified US air traffic automation platform  appeared first on AeroTime.

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