The ongoing shortage of certified air traffic controllers in the United States has caused significant disruptions at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey. For seven consecutive days, flights have faced major delays due to staffing issues. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) implemented a Ground Delay Program until midnight ET, with flights delayed by an average of two hours and thirteen minutes. Contributing factors include the nationwide shortage of air traffic controllers, a walk-off by Newark controllers, a runway closure for rehabilitation work, and outdated technology failures. United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby highlighted that over 20% of FAA controllers for Newark walked off the job, exacerbating the situation. The FAA’s data shows that only about 70% of staffing targets are filled by fully certified controllers nationwide. The airport’s control facility has been chronically understaffed for years, leading to concerns about its ability to handle scheduled flights in the coming months.
— new from CNN
