The Brief
- Over the weekend, Newark Liberty International Airport faced multiple delays and cancellations.
- The disruptions are being exacerbated by ongoing construction activities and a scarcity of air traffic controllers.
- United Airlines is reducing 35 daily round-trip flights at Newark Airport.
NEW JERSEY
–
The impact is spreading across the country.
Prolonged holdups and sudden cancelations
What we know
On May 3, Newark Liberty International Airport saw over 350 delays and approximately 80 cancellations, as reported by the flight-tracking website.
FlightAware
, continuing the trend of disruptions at the airport over the weekend.
The two most prevalent issues contributing to the disruptions are a staffing shortage for air traffic control and ongoing construction at the airport.
Runway rehabilitation
One of Newark’s main runways, Runway 4L-22R, remains shut until mid-June because of a
construction project
intended to “restore” the runway. This $121 million initiative aims to enhance the runway’s structure ensuring compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.
Flights are being rerouted to two alternative runways during the construction period. Nevertheless, there are instances when Newark functions using only one runway.
one active runway
as reported by travelers online.
FAA staffing shortages
Another problem at Newark Airport is a significant lack of staff.
Scott Kirby, the CEO of United Airlines, stated in a letter that the air traffic control center at Newark Airport has faced severe staff shortages for an extended period.
letter
to the airline’s customers.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy disclosed a new plan
set of actions
To “enhance the air traffic controller workforce even further” starting May 1.
The only option available
What’s next
“We feel like there is no other choice in order to protect our customers,” Kirby wrote in regard to the 35 daily round-trip flights being pulled from Newark’s schedule.
The Source
The article features reporting by FOX 5’s Duarte Geraldino.
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