US air traffic control still runs on Windows 95 and floppy disks
1 min read
Summary
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the US is looking to modernise its air traffic control (ATC) infrastructure, which is currently reliant on 20th-century technology, including Microsoft’s Windows 95 operating system and floppy disks.
While the outdated technology has inadvertently protected the FAA from cyberattacks that have affected newer digital infrastructure, 51 of its 138 systems are now unsustainable due to outdated functionality and a lack of replacement parts.
Modernising the infrastructure will be a complex process beyond merely updating hardware, as the systems must be capable of 24/7 operation and any downtime could impact aviation safety.
This presents engineers with a unique challenge, although it is hoped that the transition to digital will increase efficiency and bring the US in line with the aviation industry in other countries, which are further along in the modernisation process.
