Newark Liberty International Airport experienced a significant shortage of air traffic controllers, with only three controllers on duty instead of the required 14, leading to delays of up to seven hours for arriving flights. This issue comes amid multiple technical problems, including three communications blackouts within a week. The most recent blackout lasted up to 90 seconds, disrupting air traffic control operations. Efforts are underway to address these challenges, including reducing the number of flights and testing new fiber optic lines to replace outdated copper wiring. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has proposed raising the mandatory retirement age for air traffic controllers to alleviate the shortage. Despite these issues, officials emphasize that safety remains the top priority. Mayor Ras Baraka noted that delays and cancellations are necessary to ensure safe operations at the airport.
— new from The Guardian
