2025 Air Traffic Control Modernization Summit
July 15, 2025 | Washington, DC
Presented in Partnership with





The countdown to this event is over!
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About the Summit
The 2025 Air Traffic Control Modernization Summit will bring together top-level officials from government and all segments of the aviation industry for an one-day gathering focusing on the current state of the nation’s aging air traffic control system and immediate investments, policies, and actions that can be taken to enhance safety, efficiency, and reliability. With leaders from government and across the industry aligned on the imperative for quick action, the summit provides a unique opportunity for stakeholders and policymakers to come together to help chart the course forward in building the system that users, travelers, and all Americans demand and deserve.
Agenda
Taking place July 15, 2025, at the Hilton Washington DC Capitol Hill the 2025 Air Traffic Control Modernization Summit is a premier, one-day event presented in partnership with Airlines for America, the General Aviation Manufacturers Association, the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, and the National Business Aviation Association.
Click below for full agenda. Subject to change. Please check back for updates.
Tuesday, July 15
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Registration
8-9 a.m.
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The Case for ATC Modernization: A Discussion with Industry Leaders
9-10 a.m.
Industry leaders’ discussion of the current limitations and future potential of the U.S. Air Traffic Control (ATC) system. Representing a cross-section of the aviation ecosystem—airlines, air traffic controllers, general aviation, manufacturers and airport operators—these experts will share insights into the challenges impacting the safety, efficiency, and scalability of our national airspace. The discussion will also look ahead, focusing on how targeted investments, modernization, and public-private collaboration can yield significant benefits.
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Break
10-10:30 a.m.
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View from the Hill with Chairman Ted Cruz (R-TX)
10:30-10:45 a.m.
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View from the Hill with Rep. Steve Womack (R-AR)
10:45-11 a.m.
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Air Traffic Control Modernization: Operator Experiences and Opportunities
11 a.m. - 12 p.m.
This panel brings together operators from across the aviation industry to share their firsthand experiences navigating the current Air Traffic Control (ATC) system and to provide insights into modernization efforts. Panelists will discuss the day-to-day challenges they face under the existing system, including operational inefficiencies, capacity constraints, and the impact on customer service and scheduling. The conversation will also explore what’s possible when advanced technologies, improved procedures, and integrated systems are implemented. Panelists will highlight the benefits of an upgraded system—such as increased safety, enhanced efficiency, reduced delays, and better overall experience for passengers, pilots, and all system users.
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Lunch
12-1:15 p.m.
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Delivering the Future ATC System: On Time, On Budget, and with Accountability
1:15-2:15 p.m.
The next era of air traffic modernization will redefine how complex systems are managed and delivered. For the first time, a single prime contractor is expected to take the lead on the end-to-end design, construction, and modernization of the National Airspace System, marking a major departure from the FAA’s traditional approach to infrastructure and systems procurement. This model has important implications for industry, oversight, timelines, and accountability. Leaders from across the aviation and infrastructure sectors will explore what this new strategy means in practice and how it differs from past processes. From radar and automation platforms to communications systems and facility construction, panelists will discuss how this integrated approach can streamline delivery, improve system interoperability, and accelerate progress. They’ll also address key questions around governance, risk management, and how success will be defined and measured.
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View from the Hill with Rep. Rick Larsen (D-WA)
2:15-2:45 p.m.
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Break
2:45-3:15 p.m.
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Modernizing Air Traffic Control: Key Technologies for Transformation in the Sky and on the Ground
3:15 - 4:15 p.m.
This panel examines the critical technologies that will be part of the new air traffic control system —both in the sky and on the ground, including advanced surveillance systems, communications, automation platforms, avionics upgrades, and more. Panelists will discuss the comprehensive range of innovations reshaping airspace and airfield management. The session addresses specific technologies enabling this transformation, comparing them to legacy systems, and evaluating their operational benefits for controllers, pilots, airports, and passengers and will highlight how modernization will enhance safety, efficiency, coordination, and capacity at airports and across the National Airspace System.
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Fireside Chat with Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)
4:15-4:45 p.m.
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The Runway Ahead: Next Steps for Congress, Administration and Aviation Stakeholders
4:45-5:30 p.m.
Following the day’s discussion of current challenges, proposed solutions, and the necessary next steps to ensure the advancement of a fully modernized air traffic control system, this panel will focus on maintaining momentum within Congress, the Department of Transportation, and among system users and stakeholders, while also identifying key opportunities and addressing potential risks that could influence the successful implementation of this transformative initiative.
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Reception
5:30-6:30 p.m.
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End
6:30 p.m.
Registration Fees & Deadlines
You acknowledge that in registering for and attending this AAAE event, you agree to adhere to the cancellation policy noted below, AAAE's Duty of Care, and AAAE's Code of Conduct and Terms and Conditions.
If you do not see the correct pricing for your member type, please contact member.services@aaae.org to complete your registration for this event.
2025 REGISTRATION FEES
In U.S. funds drawn on a U.S. bank.
Registration fee includes lunch and an evening reception, educational sessions, and conference materials.
Member/Non-Member | $350 |
Federal Government Employee | $325 |
AAAE accepts registration regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, sex, physical disability and national or ethnic origin. This includes but is not limited to admissions, employment and educational services.
Cancellation Policy:
Registrations, cancellations and refund requests must be submitted in writing. All cancellation requests for registrations received on or before Friday, June 27, 2025, are subject to a $125 cancellation processing fee; approved refunds will be processed after the meeting takes place. There will be no refunds of any kind after this date. Cancellations with outstanding invoices received within two weeks of the start of the conference, will require full payment on the balance due. Refunds will not be provided, and balance dues will not be forgiven for no-shows. Substitutions within the same conference will be accepted without penalties. The difference between member and non-member price will be charged if a non-member replaces a member. Substitutions will be accepted with a written request to AAAEmeetings@aaae.org. The individual substituting for the original registrant is responsible for all financial obligations (balance due; difference in fees due to membership type) associated with that substitution. For all inquiries regarding cancellations, refunds and substitutions, please contact the AAAE Meetings Department at 703.824.0500 or email AAAEmeetings@aaae.org. By submitting a completed registration form, you acknowledge that you have read and understand the cancellation policy. Please note failure to receive a confirmation letter before an event will not be grounds for a refund or credit.
NOTE: AAAE reserves the right to postpone or cancel an event if the number of registrants is insufficient; due to acts of God; or any other reason beyond AAAE’s control. In this event, we will notify all registrants by email and credit the full registration fee towards another AAAE meeting, product or service. However, any costs incurred by the registrant, such as hotel cancellation or airline penalties, are the responsibility of the registrant. Confirmation letters will be emailed to attendees within two weeks of receipt of registration. However, if you have not received a confirmation email two business days prior to the meeting, and you enrolled at least two weeks prior to the meeting, please contact the AAAE Meetings Department at AAAEmeetings@aaae.org.
Please note, failure to receive a confirmation letter before an event will not be grounds for a refund.
AAAE Media Access Policy:
The American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) reserves the right to grant at their sole discretion access to TV, radio and print media organizations or individuals that have registered and received prior authorization from AAAE at least 72 hours prior to an AAAE event they wish to cover. Due to the sensitive nature of some discussions, not all sessions at some AAAE events will be open to media. AAAE retains the sole right to grant or refuse media access for any event or section of an event it operates. Please direct all inquiries to Brian Kalish.
Hotel & Travel

Hotel
The Summit will take place at the Hilton Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.
Please contact AAAE Staff at AAAEmeetings@aaae.org if you require assistance or recommendations on hotel accommodations.
Travel
Ground Transportation
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ARRIVING BY AIR: The Hilton Washington DC Capitol Hill is located about five miles from DCA Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, approximately 10-15 minutes via taxi/cab or rideshare; and 34 miles from IAD Washington Dulles International Airport, approximately 50 minutes via taxi/cab or rideshare.
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DRIVING/PARKING: Valet parking is available for attendees for $60 per day/night. The hotel does not have self-parking at this time.
Sponsorship Information
Shake Hands with Aviation Leaders
Sponsoring this high-impact event positions your organization as a proactive leader in aviation innovation and infrastructure. It’s an unparalleled opportunity to showcase your commitment to safety, technology, and modernization in front of key decision-makers, raise brand visibility among senior stakeholders, and align your company with the conversations shaping the future of air traffic control in the U.S. Sponsorships are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, so act now before these opportunities sell out!
Benefits
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Publicity through AAAE press release and post-show coverage
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Recognition in promotional materials distributed to more than 20,000 industry professionals
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Recognition on the Air Traffic Control Modernization Summit webpage
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Listing in conference mobile app used by all attendees
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Your company's name and logo prominently displayed on signage at the sponsored event
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Verbal recognition at the sponsored event
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Complimentary registrations for your team
Opportunities & Investment
Events are sold on a first-come, first-served basis. All opportunities are co-sponsorships unless otherwise noted.
Strategic Partner
Event Sponsor; Evening Reception Sponsor; 4 Complimentary Registrations; Onsite Recognition
$2,500 per co-sponsorship
Contributor
Event Sponsor; 2 Complimentary Registrations: Onsite Recognition
$1,500 per co-sponsorship
Contact Hannah Genovese if you have questions or to submit your sponsorship contract.
Thank You to Our Sponsors!





























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Contact Information
Questions? Contact Us!
Program Information
Karen Kuhlman
703.797.9022
Sponsorship Information
Hannah Genovese
571.982.6336
Registration & Hotel Information
Stephanie Santini
703.797.2558
Press & Media Inquiries
Brian Kalish
703.575.2461