Owais Crawford
United Airlines has been facing significant challenges at Newark Liberty International Airport, the airline's second-busiest hub, which have resulted in substantial disruptions for passengers. The issues stem from a combination of factors, including a shortage of air traffic controllers, technological failures due to outdated equipment, and the closure of a busy runway for repairs. These problems have led to unprecedented delays and cancellations, with United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby expressing frustration and taking decisive action by cancelling 35 round-trip flights per day at Newark Airport.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name | Newark Liberty International Airport |
| Location | Newark, New Jersey |
| Delays | Delays and cancellations due to FAA staffing shortages, runway construction, and outdated technology |
| United Airlines Response | Cancellation of 35 round-trip flights per day |
| United Airlines CEO | Scott Kirby |
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What You'll Learn
United Airlines flights impacted by Newark Airport delays
United Airlines has been forced to cancel 35 round-trip flights per day from its schedule at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey, due to air traffic controller shortages and technology problems. The airline's CEO, Scott Kirby, has blamed the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for failing to address "long-simmering" challenges related to the air traffic control system.
The decision to cut flights comes after thousands of passengers faced lengthy delays, with disruptions experienced throughout the week. On Saturday, average delays for arrivals were nearly two hours, with some flights delayed by up to five hours. Departures were delayed by an average of 45 minutes. By the afternoon, departing flights were delayed by around 30 minutes on average.
The issues at Newark Airport have been compounded by over 20% of FAA controllers who "walked off the job", according to Kirby. The control facility responsible for traffic at Newark has been "chronically understaffed for years", he added.
A telecommunication system failure on April 28 caused radios to go silent and screens to go blank, leading to air traffic controllers taking trauma leave. Controllers in Philadelphia Terminal Radar Approach Control, which manages planes arriving at Newark, temporarily lost radar and communications with aircraft.
United Airlines operates the most flights out of Newark by far, and the flight cuts represent around 10% of the airline's daily schedule at the airport. The airline has urged the FAA to implement flight restrictions similar to those in place at other congested airports.
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United CEO Scott Kirby's comments on the delays
In 2022, United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby criticized the government's air-traffic system, calling it the "by far the No. 1" cause of flight delays. Kirby's comments sparked a response from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which issued a statement showing that airlines were responsible for more delays than the agency. The FAA emphasized its commitment to ensuring passenger safety and encouraged airlines to be transparent about interruptions.
In 2025, Kirby issued a warning about safety concerns at Newark Liberty International Airport, one of the busiest travel hubs in the United States. He highlighted issues with technology relied on by FAA air traffic controllers, resulting in diverted, delayed, and canceled flights. An air traffic controller at Newark expressed safety concerns, urging travelers to avoid the airport. Kirby's announcement came as Newark airport experienced issues due to low ceilings, causing a ground stop.
Kirby's comments at Newark reflect a shift in his approach to airline management, prioritizing customer experience over strict cost control. This transformation marks a departure from his previous roles, where he was known for cost-cutting measures. Under Kirby's leadership, United Airlines has made significant investments in enhancing the customer experience, taking risks with potentially less quantifiable payoffs.
Kirby's management style challenges conventional wisdom, showcasing the potential for executive growth and adaptation. He has advocated for eliminating change fees, improving business-class products, and enhancing lounges and mobile app experiences. Kirby's 'No Excuses' philosophy has guided United's strategic decisions, and the airline is performing well financially. The airline's strong performance is attributed to improved customer experiences and significant product investments.
Overall, Scott Kirby's comments on delays and his approach to management demonstrate a focus on customer experience and transparency. His leadership style has contributed to United Airlines' growth and adaptation to changing market dynamics.
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Air traffic controller staffing shortages
Air traffic control staffing shortages have been causing significant disruptions at Newark Liberty International Airport, one of the busiest airports in the United States. The issue came to a head in May 2025, when an equipment outage resulted in air traffic controllers losing radio and radar contact with planes heading to Newark. This incident caused hundreds of flight delays and cancellations, affecting thousands of travellers.
The problem of controller shortages is not unique to Newark, but is prevalent across many air traffic control facilities in the United States. In fact, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), there is a national shortage of around 3,000 air traffic controllers. This shortage has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which paused controller training programs, and early retirements, as controllers have a mandatory retirement age of 56.
The consequences of these staffing shortages are significant. In addition to causing delays and cancellations, there are concerns that the shortages may compromise safety. In January 2025, a mid-air collision between a US Army Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines regional jet near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport killed 67 people. While the exact cause of the crash is still under investigation, it has brought attention to the issue of controller shortages and raised questions about the role that controller staffing may have played in the incident.
In response to the shortages, the FAA and the Department of Transportation (DOT) have introduced a range of incentives to attract and retain air traffic controllers, including salary increases, bonuses, and additional resources for students. However, critics argue that these measures may not be enough, and that more needs to be done to address the underlying issues, including outdated technology and infrastructure.
The situation at Newark highlights the broader challenges facing air traffic control in the United States. With increasing demand for air travel, chronic understaffing, and aging technology, there are concerns that disruptions and delays may continue unless more comprehensive solutions are implemented. As air travel continues to recover from the impacts of the pandemic, ensuring safe and efficient air traffic control operations will be critical.
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Technology issues at Newark Airport
Technology issues at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey have caused significant disruption to flights, with air traffic controllers losing radar and radio communication with aircraft. This has resulted in delays and cancellations for thousands of passengers, with flights experiencing an average delay of four hours.
Controllers at Philadelphia Terminal Radar Approach Control, which manages planes arriving at Newark, lost access to the systems that help them guide aircraft, meaning they were unable to see, hear, or talk to the planes. This outage lasted for nearly 90 seconds, according to Bloomberg. As a result, over 20% of FAA controllers at Newark walked off the job, with at least five taking 45 days of special government leave to recover from the trauma of the incident.
The situation has been described as "ridiculous" by Peter Goelz, former managing director of the National Transportation Safety Board. He warned that the stress on controllers could impact safety, and that the outdated air traffic control system used by the airport contributed to the delays.
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which operates Newark Airport, has urged the FAA to address ongoing staffing shortages and accelerate long-overdue technology upgrades. The FAA has acknowledged the issues, stating that the ""antiquated air traffic control system is affecting our workforce" and that they are working to ensure the current telecommunications equipment in the New York area is more reliable.
The issues at Newark Airport highlight the challenges of an understaffed and outdated air traffic control system, which has been under immense pressure for years. The FAA has pledged to implement a new system and boost the hiring and retention of controllers, but these changes could take years to take effect.
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Runway construction at Newark Airport
Beginning on April 15, 2025, Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in New Jersey commenced a three-month runway renovation project. The project involves the closure of Runway 4L-22R, the airport's busiest runway for departures, which spans 11,000 feet in length and 150 feet in width.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued recommendations to mitigate anticipated delays. For arrivals between 6 AM and 2 PM, it is suggested that no more than 35 arrivals per hour take place, with this number reduced to 31 arrivals per hour from 3 PM through the end of the day. Similarly, for departures between 6 AM and 4 PM, it is advised to limit departures to 35 per hour, with no more than 31 departures per hour from 5 PM onwards.
Despite these measures, the construction has contributed to significant travel disruptions at the airport. United Airlines reported diverting 21 flights to alternate airports and delaying numerous others. Passengers have experienced missed connections, extended waits on the tarmac, and even flight cancellations.
The challenges at Newark Airport have been exacerbated by compounding issues, including an air traffic control staff shortage, technological outages, and adverse weather conditions. Acting FAA Administrator, Chris Rocheleau, has acknowledged the need to address equipment issues and ensure proper training for controllers.
The runway construction at Newark Airport is part of essential maintenance to ensure the safety and efficiency of the airport's operations. While the project may cause temporary inconveniences, it is aimed at enhancing the overall functionality and capacity of the airport.
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Frequently asked questions
Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey is United's second busiest airport and has been described as one of the nation's busiest airports.
Delays have been caused by air traffic controller staffing shortages, outdated technology, bad weather, and the closure of one of the airport's busiest runways.
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby has blamed the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the delays, citing staffing shortages and technology issues. United has cancelled 35 round-trip flights per day at Newark Airport to protect customers from further delays.
The delays have caused hundreds of delays and cancellations, affecting thousands of passengers. United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby stated that in November, over half a million customers were delayed due to air traffic control issues at Newark Airport alone.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has called for a full investigation into the issues at Newark Airport to prevent the problems from worsening or spreading to other airports. The FAA has acknowledged the issues and is addressing the staffing shortage, with efforts already underway.
