Concerns are mounting at Newark Liberty International Airport, particularly during peak hours tonight, where air traffic control is staffed by just one qualified controller and a trainee. This is a far cry from the typical requirement of 15 personnel for effective operations between 6:30 PM and 9 PM.
An air traffic controller based in New York described the situation as “pure insanity.” There’s a heavy schedule of about 168 to 180 flights expected to arrive and depart, and the airport control towers are operating under extremely limited conditions.
This precarious staffing shortage, characterized by a “zero ATC event,” is the result of not enough industry workers showing up, rendering the control tower critically understaffed until the arrival of the daytime controller, who can take over the night shift.
“One controller can only do so much; they’re not going to cover everything safely,” the source cautioned.
Reports suggest that on Sunday, there were only two controllers available during the night shifts. The target staffing for Newark is 15, and operating with less than half that number compromises safety, a concern raised by the long-time controller.
“If we drop below this standard, safety measures begin to erode,” they noted, emphasizing that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is aware of this. In response, they’ve been delaying ground operations across the country.
“Having just one to three controllers on duty can still be hazardous,” they pointed out. The FAA and the Department of Transportation did not provide immediate comments on the issue.
During a press conference, U.S. Transport Secretary Sean Duffy suggested that the current problems in the control tower stem from previous administrative decisions.
Air traffic control in the New York and New Jersey area is widely regarded as among the most complex in the nation. United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby shared that even with optimal conditions, the FAA indicates that Newark can handle only 77 flights per hour, although schedules often exceed that number, leading to potential congestion.
“This math isn’t working,” Kirby remarked, highlighting issues that could arise from weather, staffing shortages, or system failures.
Newark Liberty International Airport, where United operates the majority of flights, has recently dealt with two significant radar and communication failures in quick succession, prompting the FAA to propose limiting flight operations to fewer than 56 per hour.
Discussions among the FAA and airlines recently revolved around adjusting flight schedules to address the understaffing crisis that has been causing significant delays and cancellations, alongside increasing safety anxieties.
There’s a sense that a collaborative solution involving federal officials and unions could have a positive impact, reflecting back on previous successful staffing initiatives last summer.
The FAA has also indicated that many controllers at Newark are currently on extended leave, further straining efforts amid the ongoing challenges, including equipment issues.
