Last week’s incident at Newark Liberty International Airport caused a significant number of flight cancellations, affecting many travelers. United Airlines, which manages a large portion of the airport’s traffic, has opted to cancel 35 daily flights from its New Jersey hubs. This decision aims to address ongoing air traffic controller shortages, old safety equipment, and construction work on runways.
While United didn’t specify which particular flights are affected, tracking data suggests that certain routes—especially those connecting smaller airports—are among those canceled.
Here are 13 flights that have seen the most cancellations since the disruptions started:
- UA3603 – Grand Rapids, Michigan to Newark
- UA3684 – St. Louis to Newark
- UA3626 – Montreal to Newark
- UA2161 – Newark to San Francisco
- UA3528 – Portland, Maine to Newark
- UA3437 – Newark to Milwaukee
- UA3609 – Newark to Louisville, Kentucky
- UA3469 – Newark to Memphis
- UA3675 – Columbus, Ohio to Newark
- UA3481 – Indianapolis to Newark
- UA3712 – Myrtle Beach, South Carolina to Newark
- UA3509 – Newark to Pittsburgh
- UA3514 – Quebec, Canada to Newark
Experts suggest that routes to smaller cities are more vulnerable to cancellations, leaving travelers seeking alternative arrangements. On the other hand, international flights, which typically use larger aircraft, are likely to remain more stable since they generate better profit margins.
“Flights that will probably see the least impact are international routes, where connections are plentiful,” noted Kyle Bailey, a former FAA safety representative. “They don’t want to jeopardize the more lucrative international trips,” he added.
In a letter from United CEO Scott Kirby dated May 2, he referenced staffing issues at the Philadelphia Air Traffic Control Center, which oversees Newark’s operations. Kirby emphasized the airline’s commitment to minimizing the consequences for customers through these cancellations.
The disruption in air traffic was exacerbated by a recent incident on April 28, where equipment failures caused significant confusion for about 90 seconds, leaving controllers without radar or communication.
Bailey mentioned that passengers holding expensive international tickets are generally less affected by the cuts, as airlines often analyze which flights are profitable. This situation tends to hit smaller markets harder, likened to “puddle jumpers.” He reflected on potential scenarios like a father missing a visit to his daughter at university or business travelers being impacted.
“They focus on what’s financially advantageous. It’s all about maximizing profit,” he noted, indicating that airlines prioritize certain routes over others.
United Airlines has not responded to requests for comment. Bailey observed that while Newark has seen an increase in flights from many airlines, United, which holds around 75% of Newark’s air traffic, has noticeably reduced the number of services. Notably, United cut 700 flights last November.
Bailey remarked on the uncertainty surrounding whether the 35 canceled flights will return, suggesting that the airline’s decision-making is driven primarily by profitability.
