Newark Airport Faces Ongoing Flight Disruptions Amid Air Traffic Control Shortages

Newark Liberty International Airport has endured prolonged flight delays and cancellations due to a severe shortage of air traffic controllers and outdated equipment, with disruptions stretching over a week. United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby has called for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to reinstate slot controls at Newark to cap flights within the airport's operational capacity, arguing that current scheduling exceeds safe limits amid staffing and infrastructure challenges. The FAA acknowledges a nationwide shortfall of about 3,000 controllers and is working to boost recruitment and retain existing staff, but officials concede the problem cannot be fixed quickly. Ongoing runway construction and antiquated technology, such as the use of floppy disks and copper wires, have further exacerbated Newark's issues. While safety protocols remain in place, experts stress that modernizing infrastructure and addressing staffing gaps are critical for supporting growing travel demand. The disruptions have drawn attention from political leaders and industry experts, who underscore the urgency of both short-term and long-term solutions.