FAA Extends Newark Flight Restrictions Through June 2025 Amid Radar, Runway Issues

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has imposed and extended flight restrictions at Newark Liberty International Airport due to ongoing challenges including runway construction, air traffic controller shortages, and equipment outages. The FAA has capped hourly arrivals and departures at 28 each during peak construction periods, which are expected to last until June 15, 2025, with construction continuing on Saturdays through the end of the year. After construction ends, the limits will increase to 34 arrivals and departures per hour until October 25, 2025. The FAA is implementing technological upgrades such as new high-bandwidth telecommunications, fiberoptic connections, and a backup system to improve reliability, alongside plans to increase air traffic controller staffing. These measures aim to reduce severe flight delays and cancellations experienced recently, which have already caused airlines like United Airlines to cut dozens of flights. Acting FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau emphasized the goal of relieving travel disruptions caused by the combination of construction, staffing issues, and equipment failures affecting the National Airspace System.