TFDM Modernization with a Live Cutover and a Fixed Grand Prix Deadline
Overview
In 2023 the FAA initiated the modernization of the Las Vegas ATCT with Terminal Flight Data Manager (TFDM). Evans had history in this cab. In 2015 we installed slatwall console systems that supported both legacy and emerging equipment. The objective was clear. Integrate TFDM across the tower before the Las Vegas Grand Prix while the facility remained fully operational. The cab footprint is approximately 850 square feet with a raised supervisor platform and perimeter controller positions.
Challenge
The cab is compact and always on. TFDM required the removal of physical flight strip bays, the installation of large touch displays at every position, and new fiber and KVM routing in an already dense environment. Controllers had to keep working live traffic while their workstations were reconfigured around them. The deadline was fixed by the Grand Prix in November 2023. The task was to complete a full live cutover with no allowance for downtime and no loss of controller performance.
Scope of Work
Evans’ role at the Las Vegas ATCT was focused on adapting the physical tower cab environment to support the FAA’s new TFDM technology. Our scope included:
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Assessment and Planning — Conducting a site survey to document cab dimensions, position layouts, and the requirements for accommodating TFDM hardware within an active tower.
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Custom Fabrication — Designing and building new worksurfaces, brackets, monitor mounts, and keyboard trays engineered to fit the existing Evans slatwall consoles.
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Workstation Reconfiguration — Removing legacy flight strip bays and reconfiguring controller positions to accept TFDM displays while preserving ergonomics and sightlines.
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Installation in Live Operations — Executing the physical modifications position by position during active tower operations, ensuring controllers remained fully functional throughout.
Solution
Evans focused on the physical environment of the Las Vegas ATCT cab, ensuring the new TFDM system could be deployed without disrupting live operations. Under the leadership of Kevin Robertson, ATC Program Manager, and Nick Yaskiw, ATC Market Manager, the Evans team designed and fabricated custom worksurfaces, brackets, and mounts that adapted the existing Evans slatwall consoles to support TFDM hardware.
Because the cab was active throughout the project, every change was staged and tested in advance, then installed position by position. This approach allowed controllers to continue managing traffic as their stations were upgraded around them. By reusing and adapting the slatwall infrastructure first installed in 2015, Evans delivered a cost-effective and low-risk solution that preserved operational continuity while preparing the tower for next-generation workflows.
Results
The Las Vegas ATCT entered the Grand Prix period fully operational with TFDM in place at every controller position. The cutover was completed on schedule and without service interruption. Controllers gained a streamlined electronic workflow supported by improved sightlines and ergonomics. The Evans slatwall consoles installed in 2015 were successfully adapted to accept the new TFDM monitors and hardware, eliminating the need for a full rebuild and proving their ability to support evolving FAA technology requirements.
Why It Matters
This project shows how FAA towers can modernize in place. By building on the existing Evans slatwall consoles installed in 2015, the FAA avoided a disruptive rebuild, met an immovable event deadline, and created a platform ready for future communications, surveillance, and automation upgrades. The approach is repeatable across towers facing BNATCS era requirements. It reduces risk, preserves prior investment, and delivers capability without pausing operations.
Looking to upgrade your Air Traffic Control Tower but not sure where to begin?
Work with Nick Yaskiw, Vertical Manager – ATC & Airports, and see how Evans delivers complex ATC projects without downtime.