The William J. Hughes Technical Center has been at the forefront of the Federal Aviation Administration’s research since its inception in 1954, evolving its mission as technology changes.
But now, as the agency is spearheading the latest innovation in air traffic control, it’s fallen into the crosshairs of critics, including President Donald Trump, who’ve questioned the FAA’s ability to lead.
Local politicians and center officials point out the many positives of research that federal officials hope will increase the air transportation system’s capacity and reduce delays.
The goal of the more than $20 billion Next Generation Air Transportation System is to switch the current air traffic control system from a radar-based transportation system to one that uses satellite navigation.