Newark Liberty International Airport is currently experiencing significant turmoil. In recent weeks, there have been numerous flight cancellations, delays, and even some alarming technical issues. Air traffic controllers, who are noticeably stretched thin, are putting in 10-hour shifts six days a week to keep the skies over Newark and New York City operating smoothly.
One controller, who has been in the field since he was 18, shared his thoughts while opting to remain anonymous. He pointed out that, as a flyer himself, he has been avoiding Newark in favor of JFK or LaGuardia due to safety concerns and what he describes as “crazy delays.” He began warning friends and family about Newark’s issues, likening it to a “plague.”
This region, with three major airports and several smaller ones, is bustling—almost like a beehive. The FAA had previously implemented measures to improve safety after a tragic mid-air collision in the ’60s that resulted in 134 fatalities. However, recent decisions seem to be undermining that safety.
About five years ago, plans were set in motion to relocate the Newark air traffic controller operations from Long Island to Philadelphia. Attempts to resist this change were unsuccessful, and many controllers were compelled to move. Out of 33 controllers, 24 made the shift, leading to severe understaffing issues.
Now, instead of the optimal number of 42 controllers, the team has dwindled to just 22, with more expected to retire soon. The feeling is that 50 controllers would be necessary to manage the operation effectively.
Technologically, they are falling behind. The link between the New York and Philadelphia systems hasn’t been upgraded properly; instead, temporary fixes have been implemented. Although there are plans to utilize satellite technology soon, the radar issues remain unresolved. Enhancements to the radar feed between Newark and Philadelphia are badly needed.
So far, the anonymous controller hasn’t faced any catastrophic incidents due to staffing shortages but acknowledges feeling overwhelmed. On busy days, the airport manages about 2,000 operations, which translates to a substantial volume of arrivals.
To improve functionality, the airport is in dire need of an additional runway, especially given that it only has three currently—while other airports like Atlanta and Denver operate with four, which allows for greater efficiency.
There are rumors suggesting that the federal Transportation Secretary is considering relocating Newark’s air traffic controllers back to New York, but there’s little hope for swift resolutions. The current FAA leadership has, unfortunately, neglected the situation, leading to ongoing frustrations. The only motivation for the FAA to act might arise from fear of a significant disaster, similar to a recent collision in Washington, D.C.
