Newark Airport Air Traffic Controllers Experience Temporary Radar Outage: What It Means for Travelers

Air traffic controllers at Newark Airport in New Jersey faced another radar outage on Friday, marking the second incident in two weeks. The failure lasted 90 seconds and raised alarms about the aging air traffic control system, a concern President Trump hopes to address with a major overhaul.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that this black-out occurred at a Philadelphia facility directing Newark’s air traffic. The previous outage led to hundreds of delays and cancellations, forcing the FAA to limit traffic for safety. Since then, five controllers took trauma leave, exacerbating staffing shortages. It’s uncertain if more controllers will take leave following this latest incident.

Newark has become notorious for delays, and the ongoing runway construction only complicates matters. Recent statistics reveal an average of 34 daily flight cancellations, with delays rising from five in the early morning to 16 by evening, lasting anywhere from 85 to 137 minutes. The FAA plans to discuss reducing arrivals and departures with airlines in a formal meeting next week to ease congestion.

Capt. Dennis Tajer from the Allied Pilots Association reassured that while these outages are serious, the system is designed to handle problems. “It’s wired to function well when everything’s operational,” he stated. In emergencies, pilots revert to broadcasting their positions, much like at smaller airports lacking control towers.

The National Transportation Safety Board has long highlighted issues within the air traffic control system. Recent tragic incidents, including a fatal midair collision that claimed 67 lives in January, have intensified the call for modernization. The FAA’s proposed $20 billion upgrade aims to replace outdated technology and enhance safety, planning the installation of over 4,600 high-speed connections and 618 new radar systems nationwide.

U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer criticized the lack of modern technology and adequate staffing at Newark. He described the technology in use as relics from the 1980s. Currently, the FAA has only 24 controllers when it needs 38 for optimal coverage, as many are temporarily assigned and some are on leave. To cope, they are hastily working to certify 26 trainees currently in training.

Senator Chuck Schumer emphasized the urgency of the situation. He insisted that the FAA must act swiftly to resolve the issues plaguing Newark Airport, stating, “This is an air travel safety emergency that requires immediate and decisive action, not just promises for a distant overhaul.”

This ongoing situation at Newark Airport underscores the pressing need for reform in the air traffic control system. With air travel demand expected to rise, ensuring the safety and efficiency of operations is critical for the future.

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