Newark Flight Delays Spur FAA System Overhaul

Newark Liberty International Airport continues to face significant delays and cancellations due to both equipment outages and a shortage of air traffic controllers. The recent outage, which involved Philadelphia TRACON controllers losing radar and radio contact with planes for up to 90 seconds, has intensified safety concerns and led to several controllers taking trauma leave. This staffing shortage has prompted the FAA to issue repeated ground delays, with average flight delays now exceeding two hours. New Jersey’s governor and federal officials are calling for urgent upgrades to the air traffic control system. U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has announced plans for a comprehensive system overhaul, including new technology and expanded staffing. The disruptions underscore persistent problems with outdated infrastructure and personnel shortages in one of the nation’s busiest airspaces.