Aerial view showing Newark Liberty International Airport amidst significant flight delays.
For the seventh consecutive day, Newark Liberty International Airport is experiencing significant flight delays. This ongoing issue stems from a shortage of certified air traffic controllers and outdated technology at the airport. With over 20% of Newark’s controllers walking off last week and a runway under rehabilitation, airlines like United Airlines are forced to delay or cancel numerous flights. The FAA’s staffing crisis has reached alarming levels, prompting safety concerns among travelers. Efforts are underway to address these challenges, but immediate solutions remain crucial as summer travel peaks.
Travelers at Newark Liberty International Airport are feeling the heat as the airport grapples with significant delays for the seventh consecutive day. The culprit? A shortage of certified air traffic controllers, coupled with a range of other pesky factors that have thrown a wrench into travel plans for thousands.
It all started when the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) implemented a Ground Delay Program last Sunday. This measure has led to average flight delays of nearly four hours. So, if you’re flying through Newark, you might want to pack a book or two to pass the time!
Multiple issues are contributing to these frustrating delays. First off, there’s a nationwide staffing shortage of air traffic controllers. To make matters worse, over 20% of Newark’s own air traffic controllers staged a walk-off last week. On top of that, a runway at the airport is currently shut down for rehabilitation work, which is further complicating the situation.
While all this might sound daunting, it gets even trickier. The technology used in Newark’s air traffic control facility is aging and simply not up to par. Some reports even mention controllers utilizing floppy disks and copper wires. Yes, you read that right! This outdated equipment is causing significant delays and cancellations.
The fallout from these issues has been dramatic. Early Sunday, United Airlines reported that it had to delay 127 flights and cancel 20 more. Passengers have been understandably anxious, expressing safety concerns related to the staffing shortages and the antiquated technology being used.
As if that wasn’t enough, over a third of both inbound and outbound flights at Newark experienced delays, and around 12% of flights were canceled. United Airlines has now decided to cut back on its schedule, slashing 35 roundtrip flights daily from Newark to ensure customer safety. This is a big deal for those planning to travel!
The present staffing situation at the FAA is at its lowest level in nearly 30 years, with only about 70% of certified controller positions filled. If you count trainees, that figure rises to about 79%. According to the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, the agency needs more than 3,000 additional controllers to meet adequate staffing levels—something that’s becoming increasingly pressing.
With a series of incidents raising questions about aviation safety, public scrutiny of air traffic control has intensified. As Newark’s delays continue to unfold during a busy summer travel season, travelers are advised to think twice about their plans to or from the airport.
In response to the ongoing issues, Transportation Secretary Duffy has announced a $5,000 bonus for new hires and a commitment to upgrade air traffic control systems in the next three to four years. However, that won’t help today or tomorrow, and many are left wondering if it’s enough to avert further crises.
As Newark boasts the title of the 14th busiest airport in the country, serving a whopping 49 million travelers in 2024 alone, proactive measures are critical. Travelers are being encouraged to stay updated on their flight status and prepare for possible delays when navigating through Newark.
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