Elon Musk is reportedly looking to utilize Starlink’s satellite internet terminals to enhance the information technology networks of the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), as per a Bloomberg report citing sources. Starlink, a subsidiary of Musk’s SpaceX, aims to upgrade the FAA’s national airspace system. The FAA’s air traffic control (ATC) system oversees approximately 45,000 flights carrying nearly 3 million passengers daily in the US.
However, Musk’s initiatives have sparked concerns regarding potential conflicts of interest involving his companies. Sources informed Bloomberg that a $2 billion contract was awarded to Verizon Communications Inc. in 2023 for the upgrade of critical infrastructure.
Musk has reportedly approved the shipment of 4,000 Starlink terminals to the FAA, with one terminal already installed at the FAA’s ATC technology lab in New Jersey. This program, referred to as TDM X, aims to have the upgrades operational within 12 to 18 months. An FAA spokesperson confirmed to Bloomberg that testing has been completed for one Starlink terminal in Atlantic City, New Jersey, and two others at non-safety critical sites in Alaska. The spokesperson noted that the FAA is considering using Starlink to improve telecommunication connections for more reliable weather information at remote locations, including Alaska.
This development further extends Musk’s influence within the US aviation regulatory body, which oversees SpaceX’s rocket launches. The 2023 contract with Verizon is intended to support the maintenance and upgrade of the FAA’s critical infrastructure. A Verizon spokesperson emphasized the importance of ensuring a safe and functional air traffic control system.
Musk expressed concerns on social media, stating that the Verizon system is inadequate and poses risks to air travelers. It remains uncertain how the use of Starlink terminals might affect the FAA’s existing contract with Verizon.
The need for improvements to the FAA’s aging airspace network has gained urgency following a tragic midair collision in January between a regional jet and a military helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.