Air traffic control communications at Denver International Airport were interrupted for part of this week, as stated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
On Monday, around 1:50 PM local time, communications were lost for about 90 seconds. The FAA noted that a segment of the Denver Airlines Traffic Control Center “dropped both transmitters covering the airspace segment.”
The controller managed to use a different frequency to inform the pilot, ensuring that the aircraft remained “safely separated” with no “operational impact.”
The FAA is looking into the incident.
As many as 20 pilots heading to the airport faced difficulties communicating with air traffic controllers that day. Reports indicated that communication issues left pilots unable to contact control.
This incident adds to a series of troubles at US airports recently. Newark Liberty Airport has gained attention for multiple delays, largely attributed to outdated technology and staffing challenges.
One of New York’s major airports has also been affected due to part of its runway being compromised, further contributing to delays.
Transportation Secretary Sheen Duffy mentioned over the weekend that flight numbers from Newark Airport had decreased, but assured that it remained safe for travel.
During a session with the House Transportation Subcommittee, Duffy stated that the FAA had “connected all the airlines serving Newark to discuss possible delay reductions.”
“So if you book a flight, it will fly. There have been no long cancellations at the airport,” Duffy affirmed. “We remain hopeful that in the coming weeks, we can share more positive updates about the improvements we’ve achieved in communication.”
