FAA Launches VoICE Program to Replace 450 Legacy Voice Switches Across National Airspace System
Why It MattersThe overhaul signals a broader shift toward IP-based air traffic infrastructure that could improve system resilience and lay groundwork for future UAS integration and Data Comm tools.
The Federal Aviation Administration is modernizing its air traffic control voice communications infrastructure through the Voice over Internet Protocol Communications Enterprise (VoICE) program, part of the Brand New Air Traffic Control System initiative. Managed by the FAA's Voice Switch and Recorder Program Office, VoICE aims to retire roughly 450 legacy analog voice switches, some dating to the 1990s, at en route centers, TRACON facilities, control towers, and combined center radar approach control facilities, replacing them with modern IP-based Voice Communication Systems.
The rollout is planned in three waves: Wave 1 covers about 140 small towers, with Allegheny County Airport as the key site; Wave 2 addresses roughly 250 medium-sized terminal facilities with more complex operations; and Wave 3 targets Core 30 airports, Tier 1 terminal facilities, CERAPs, and the most complex en route centers. A separate Air-to-Ground Protocol component will replace all legacy Radio Control Equipment units across the National Airspace System, with Factory Acceptance Testing completed in August 2025 and Management Systems installed at Southern California TRACON in August 2025 and Indianapolis Center in September 2025.
The program also includes a NAS Voice Recorder component replacing the Digital Audio Legal Recorder at all operational ATC facilities, supporting Freedom of Information Act requests, National Transportation Safety Board investigations, search and rescue operations, and quality control audits. The FAA said the modernization will improve operational resilience, reduce maintenance costs, and provide a scalable foundation for emerging technologies including Unmanned Aircraft Systems and Data Comm tools.
