"Right now the (air traffic control system) depends on Congress for funds. The delays started because the air traffic controllers were not getting paid. AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLERS ISSUE DESPERATE PLEA AS FAMILIES STRUGGLE WITHOUT PAYCHECKSNations around the globe have privatized and corporatized versions of their own air traffic control systems — many of which are government-owned corporations or nonprofit entities that don't rely on taxpayer funds for operations. The plan to privatize air traffic controllers failed in Congress, however. The funds are being used to modernize telecommunications equipment, as well as to replace radar systems and build a new air traffic route control center.