645. Is the Air Traffic Control System Broken?

This episode of Freakonomics Radio explores the complexities of the U.S. air traffic control (ATC) system. Stephen Dubner interviews several guests, including Delta Airlines CEO Ed Bastian, former Deputy Secretary of Transportation Polly Trottenberg, and policy expert Dorothy Robyn, to discuss the challenges facing the FAA, such as outdated technology, staffing shortages, and funding issues. The podcast examines the history of air traffic control, the impact of deregulation, and potential solutions like corporatization and investment in NextGen technology. It also touches on the political and economic factors that have hindered modernization efforts, as well as the safety and efficiency trade-offs in the current system.