Duffy Announces $18M in Upgrades for San Angelo Airport

The visit also focused on Angelo State University’s aviation programs. Duffy praised the school’s growth from no program to 22 aircraft and its participation in the FAA’s Enhanced Air Traffic – Collegiate Training Initiative, which helps address a national shortage of about 1,000 air traffic controllers. 

Pfluger said the airport and university train aviators, air traffic controllers and maintenance professionals, calling the airfield’s role in supporting commercial traffic, Customs and Border Protection drone operations and Goodfellow Air Force Base a matter of national security. 

Duffy said San Angelo will receive $18 million as part of a $12.5 billion national investment in air traffic control modernization approved by Congress. The funding will support voice switches, new radios, radar, fiber optic lines to replace copper wiring and new digital displays in the tower. He said the local project is expected to be completed by fall 2027, ahead of the national timeline. 

Pfluger said the aviation program now supports more than 250 students and generates about 111,000 flight operations annually. 

Angelo State University President Ronnie Hawkins noted the school’s ability to operate 24/7 thanks to favorable weather.

"We have a pilot shortage in this country; it's not just military pilots, it's also commercial pilots," Pfluger said. "Our country is growing, our economy is growing, and people want to see efficient flights. With the Department of Transportation and FAA being able to put more pilots into the system, partnering with Southwest Airlines as part of their 225 program and other similar programs, we are adding to the national discussion, and that is a national security issue." 

Duffy said the FAA is working to increase controller throughput at its Oklahoma City academy by adding instructors and lowering the washout rate. He also mentioned retention incentives, including 20% bonuses for controllers who delay retirement. 

Pfluger thanked Duffy for the visit and said continued federal support is needed to keep the airport modern. Duffy said he appreciated the community’s efforts and noted more than $44 million in transportation grants have gone to Pfluger’s district during his tenure as secretary, with more to come.