In Alaska, aviation is essential infrastructure. Remote communities depend on aircraft for medicine, supplies and connection to the outside world. Reliable air traffic control infrastructure is critical — it’s foundational to how Alaska functions.
I’ve spent 40 years documenting Alaska aviation. I’ve watched this state prove that aviation thrives when it’s supported by federal infrastructure investment. I’ve also watched what happens when that infrastructure falters — delays, outages, operational challenges that ripple across the entire system.
Everyone agrees the system needs improvements. We’ve seen those gaps. Recent shutdowns left controllers without paychecks while performing essential work. These challenges expose weaknesses in how we fund air traffic control infrastructure (ATC) and workforce stability.
Congress has direct solutions. The One Big Beautiful Bill authorized $12.5 billion for ATC modernization — infrastructure upgrades, controller training, workforce development. Legislation under consideration would ensure controllers get paid during shutdowns. These investments strengthen the entire system, including the infrastructure Alaska depends on.
Some propose privatization as an alternative. Consider what that means for Alaska. When cost-saving decisions drive infrastructure investment, rural airports lose priority. Remote operations lose support. General aviation and specialized missions suffer most. Canada’s privatized system struggles with staffing shortages and service gaps — challenges that would hit Alaska and other rural areas hard.
Alaska aviation thrives because of the diversity of our system. Congress must implement the solutions it’s already created: fund ATC modernization fully and ensure controller payment stability. That’s how you maintain the infrastructure that aviation —and Alaska — depends on.
Congress must follow through. Alaska and communities across the country are counting on it.
— Rob Stapleton, Anchorage