Elon Musk has announced plans to send Starlink satellite internet terminals to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), claiming that existing communication systems pose a risk to air safety. However, Musk did not provide any evidence to support this claim. His remarks, made on his social media platform X, come as reports indicate that the FAA is considering canceling its contract with Verizon in favor of Starlink.
Musk’s Claims and FAA’s Testing of Starlink
Musk’s concerns about air traffic control communication were met with skepticism from industry experts. “Executives at major airlines told CNBC on Thursday that they do not see risks to air travel safety because of the FAA’s technology.” Meanwhile, the FAA has confirmed ongoing tests of Starlink’s capabilities.
“The FAA has been considering using Starlink since the prior administration to increase reliability at remote sites, including in Alaska,” the agency stated. Current trials are in Atlantic City, New Jersey, and two locations in Alaska.
Verizon and L3Harris Defend Their Roles
Musk initially blamed Verizon, claiming its system was failing. However, Verizon clarified that L3Harris, not Verizon, operate the FAA’s systems. Musk later acknowledged this and redirected blame toward L3Harris, saying their system is “rapidly declining.”
In defense of its role, Verizon stated, “Our Company is working on building the next-generation system for the FAA, which will support the Agency’s mission for safe and secure air travel.” The company emphasized that it is working on replacing outdated systems as part of a multi-year contract.
Concerns Over Musk’s Influence in Government
Musk’s close ties to the Trump administration have raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest, particularly as he seeks to supply technology to a regulatory body overseeing his company, SpaceX.
Sen. Ed Markey, D-Mass., voiced his concerns in a letter to the FAA: “While I support efforts to modernize our air traffic control system and improve aviation safety, this decision raises conflicts-of-interest concerns, given Elon Musk’s dual position as Chief Executive Officer of SpaceX and wide-ranging role in the Trump administration.”
Additionally, Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., questioned the Trump administration’s decision to lay off hundreds of FAA employees. “At a minimum, we need to know why this sudden reduction was necessary, what type of work these employees were doing, and what kind of analysis FAA conducted—if any—to ensure this would not adversely impact safety, increase flight delays, or harm FAA operations,” she wrote.
Airlines Call for Modernization Amid Rising Demand
For years, airlines have called for air traffic control modernization to address growing delays and inefficiencies. Airlines for America, representing major U.S. carriers, stated, “Carriers have made remarkable changes and significant investments in technologies, operations, product,s and people. The government must do the same in an organized and timely way.”
Industry groups have also pushed for increased funding to update FAA systems. “Last week, more than a dozen aviation industry groups and labor unions urged lawmakers to approve ‘emergency funding’ for air traffic control modernization and staffing.”
Air Safety Concerns in the Spotlight
Musk’s comments about air safety risks come shortly after a tragic collision between an American Airlines regional jet and an Army Black Hawk helicopter, resulting in 67 fatalities. This accident marked the deadliest passenger airline crash in the U.S. since 2001, ending an unprecedented period of air travel safety.
The FAA reassured the public that critical safety functions remain staffed. “The FAA does not comment on ongoing certification work,” the agency stated.
While the FAA is testing Musk’s Starlink technology, his claims about air safety risks lack supporting evidence. The debate over modernizing air traffic control systems continues, with concerns about corporate influence, government spending, and public safety at the forefront. As demand for air travel grows, a reliable and transparent modernization process remains essential.