Schmitt and Duffy Promote $30B Aviation Modernization Plan

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and Sen. Eric Schmitt are promoting the proposed Modern Skies Act, which would provide up to $30 billion for air traffic control technology, airport infrastructure and terminal upgrades. The plan includes $10 billion for aging control towers, $10 billion for airport upgrades and $10 billion for software; its terminal grants would target mid-sized airports with limited access to capital. Duffy said the proposal would build on $12.5 billion already approved for modernization, with new equipment expected to be deployed nationwide by the end of 2028. In St. Louis, officials said Lambert’s terminal consolidation project is budgeted at least $3 billion, with major work expected to accelerate next year and completion targeted for 2031 or 2032; Schmitt called the airport a strong candidate for federal support. Schmitt said he would seek a legislative vehicle to advance the bill when Congress returns after the midterm election.