FAA to finally ditch floppy disks in what it calls "historic" tech upgrade

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is upgrading its air traffic control system by replacing floppy disks with a new Enterprise Information Display System (E-IDS) at 435 facilities by the end of 2028. The E-IDS will provide air traffic controllers with faster access to data for safety alerts and replace outdated systems from the 1980s. The change has been in the works for over six years and aims to address two of the FAA's top safety concerns: distributing weather alerts to pilots and timely distribution of Notices to Airmen. The new system will allow controllers to instantly share critical flight alerts and restricted airspace schedules with pilots. The FAA says the upgrade is part of its modernization of the air traffic control system, and will give controllers the information they need to make timely decisions and keep the flying public safe.