Denver Air Traffic Controllers Face Communication Outage Amid FAA Scrutiny
Denver air traffic controllers experienced a 90-second communication failure, prompting emergency procedures as scrutiny grows over FAA equipment reliability.
Denver Air Traffic Control Outage Leaves Up To 20 Pilots Without Communication
One America News Network
Subscribe to unlock this story
We really don't like cutting you off, but you've reached your monthly limit. At just $5/month, subscriptions are how we keep this project going. Start your free 7-day trial today!
Get StartedHave an account? Sign in
Overview
Air traffic controllers in Denver lost communications for about 90 seconds due to multiple radio transmitter failures last week. The FAA confirmed that, although the outage affected communication, radar remained operational. Controllers switched to emergency frequencies to maintain contact with pilots. The incident follows several recent high-profile outages, raising concerns over air traffic control infrastructure and staffing issues. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy noted the need for modernizing the air traffic control system, especially following a deadly midair collision earlier this year. The FAA is investigating the cause of the latest outage.
Report issue
Read both sides in 5 minutes each day
Analysis
- The FAA reported a 90-second communication loss at the Denver Air Route Traffic Control Center, but confirmed no operational impacts due to the use of backup frequencies.
- This incident highlights ongoing concerns over aging air traffic control infrastructure and staffing issues, as reflected in both Denver and Newark airports.
- Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy criticized the outdated technology in the air traffic system and announced plans for a multibillion-dollar overhaul to modernize the infrastructure.
Articles (13)
Center (5)
FAQ
The communication outage was caused by multiple radio transmitter failures, where both the primary and main backup frequencies went down, forcing controllers to switch to an emergency frequency.
The communication failure lasted about 90 seconds, with as many as 20 pilots flying into Denver International Airport temporarily unable to contact air traffic control.
Radar operations remained functional during the outage, and aircraft remained safely separated with no impacts on flight operations despite the communication failure.
The outage highlights ongoing concerns over outdated technology, equipment reliability, staffing shortages, and underinvestment in air traffic control infrastructure, issues that have persisted for decades.
The FAA is investigating the cause of the outage, and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized the urgent need to modernize the air traffic control system especially after recent high-profile incidents including a deadly midair collision earlier this year.
History
- This story does not have any previous versions.