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Newark Liberty International Airport has become the world's leading airport for flight delays and cancellations, according to FlightAware. As of Sunday (May 4), the New Jersey airport faced over 100 flight cancellations and more than 300 delays. The ongoing disruptions have persisted for six consecutive days, causing significant travel chaos at one of the nation's busiest airports.
Several factors contribute to the situation, including a shortage of air traffic controllers, ongoing runway construction, and equipment issues at the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Philadelphia flight center. In response to these challenges, United Airlines announced on Friday (May 2) that it would cut 35 daily flights to and from Newark to mitigate further disruptions.
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby highlighted the long-standing issues with the air traffic control system at Newark, stating that technology failures and staffing shortages have exacerbated the situation. Kirby emphasized the need for the FAA to address these issues, noting that more than 20% of air traffic controllers at Newark have reportedly left their positions, further straining the airport's operations.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has announced efforts to increase the number of air traffic controllers, aiming to hire at least 2,000 new controllers this year. The department is offering incentives, including a 30% salary increase and bonuses, to attract new hires and retain existing staff.
As the busy summer travel season approaches, travelers are advised to stay informed about potential delays and cancellations. United Airlines has issued a travel advisory allowing passengers to make free changes to their bookings through Monday (May 5), providing flexibility for those affected by the disruptions.