Press Release
Ongoing Challenges Persist at Newark Liberty International Airport Amid Air Traffic Controller Shortage
Newark, NJ – Challenges at Newark Liberty International Airport continued into Sunday, marking the seventh day of disruptions due to an air traffic controller shortage coupled with technological failures. By 5 p.m. on Sunday, the number of flight cancellations exceeded those on Saturday, with delays also nearing similar counts, primarily affecting United Airlines.
In response to the situation, United has decided to cut 35 flights daily out of Newark, citing a significant drop in the available air traffic controller workforce. Reports indicate that 20% of the controllers serving the airport walked off the job last week, compounding the operational difficulties faced.
Governor Phil Murphy criticized the situation as “completely unacceptable,” stressing the urgent need to address the hiring decline that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has identified as a key issue. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy acknowledged the controller shortage and announced that the FAA is implementing incentives to retain current staff and plans to hire at least 2,000 new controllers this year, offering a 30% higher starting salary to attract candidates.
Travel agencies are feeling the pinch as well; Rachel Sicolo, owner of UTravel Now in Bergen County, noted a slowdown in bookings compared to the typical busy season. She expressed concern that while summer bookings might remain stable due to prior planning, the slower pace could significantly impact fall holiday travel.
Secretary Duffy has promised to unveil a new plan this week aimed at establishing an all-new air traffic control system, which officials hope will alleviate these ongoing challenges and restore efficiency at Newark Liberty International Airport.
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