The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is reportedly considering canceling a $2.4 billion contract with Verizon to revamp the nation’s air traffic control communication system, potentially awarding it to SpaceX’s Starlink instead. This development, reported by The Washington Post and confirmed by Bloomberg and The Associated Press, remains uncertain in its execution. It is unclear whether Starlink will share the project with Verizon or entirely replace it. Elon Musk has been vocal about the shortcomings of Verizon’s current system, claiming it poses risks to air travelers, though he provided no evidence. He stated that Starlink terminals would be supplied at no cost to taxpayers on an emergency basis. Musk’s influence was previously seen when FAA administrator Michael Whitaker resigned after Musk’s repeated criticism on social media. Recently, a SpaceX team has been collaborating with the FAA to modernize its outdated technology systems, with some employees even using FAA email addresses. Despite scheduled payments to Verizon next month, the SpaceX team recommended shifting the contract to Starlink. However, the formal process for this transition has not been followed, and several FAA officials have declined to sign off on the contract. Musk’s companies have received approximately $38 billion in government support over the years. Amid recent aviation incidents and staffing cuts, concerns about the air traffic control system persist. — news from The Verge
