The FAA's 2016 NextGen Implementation Plan outlines progress on six major air traffic modernization programs, including ADS-B surveillance, Data Communications, and automation upgrades, which are reshaping operations across the National Airspace System. Key milestones include Data Comm departure clearance services being rolled out to over 56 airports by end of 2016, three years ahead of schedule, and a doubling of ADS-B-equipped aircraft since 2014. While this plan focuses on nationwide airspace modernization rather than Sea-Tac-specific noise policy, the technologies described—such as more precise flight routing—can have implications for aircraft flight paths and noise impacts at airports like Sea-Tac.Open full document
Notes
The FAA’s 2016 NextGen Implementation Plan provides an update on six major programs reshaping the National Airspace System: ADS-B, Data Communications, ERAM, TAMR, NAS Voice System, and SWIM. The report highlights that the majority of NextGen’s foundational infrastructure was completed in 2015, with Data Comm departure clearance services available at over 20 airports and ADS-B equipage more than doubling since the October 2014 Call to Action. The plan also outlines timelines for new NextGen capabilities being developed through the implementation portfolio process.