[Scan-DC] Are ATC comms going digital?

[Peter R]

This seems to be related to the recent contract to modernize the air traffic control system.  See:

"What to know about the air traffic control overhaul and the company FAA hired to manage it"
https://apnews.com/article/faa-duffy-peraton-aviation-air-traffic-control-5541dd9071605c0e0a13ddcfd29046ce

And
"America’s ATC Overhaul is Just Getting Started" (from a lobbying group)
https://www.airlines.org/americas-atc-overhaul-is-just-getting-started/

And
"Peraton Offers the FAA a Brand New Approach for Its Revolutionary ATC Modernization Initiative" (from the company contracted to do it)
https://www.peraton.com/news/peraton-offers-the-faa-a-brand-new-approach-for-its-revolutionary-atc-modernization-initiative

Or Google for "BNATCS"

Of course, the ATC system has been undergoing modernization since Eastern and Pan Am were airlines, or since Y2K, or since whenever you want to start counting.  But the reason it is in the news now is probably because of the recent contract award plus the pressure to finish within 3 years.  I wish them luck.  Like the old saying "Good. Fast. Cheap. (Pick 2)", but in this case they may only get to pick one.  Digital comms probably falls under 'good' and we will see if that gets picked.

--Peter--