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19h ago

Newark Faces Second Air Traffic Control Outage in Two Weeks

A 90-second radar and communications blackout at Philadelphia TRACON disrupted Newark airspace early Friday, intensifying calls for urgent staffing and infrastructure upgrades.

Newark, New Jersey on May 7, 2025.
Travelers make their way through security at Newark Liberty International Airport in Newark, New Jersey, on May 5, 2025. The airport has been hit with recent delays and cancelations.
People arrive in cars to the Newark Liberty International Airport in Newark, New Jersey, U.S., November 27, 2024. REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz/File Photo
A passenger watches the arrivals board at Newark Liberty International Airport on Tuesday.

Overview

  • The FAA confirmed a telecommunications failure at Philadelphia TRACON Area C at 3:55 a.m. on May 9, causing a 90-second radar and communications outage affecting Newark Liberty International Airport.
  • This marks the second outage at the same facility since April 28, when a similar failure led to significant flight disruptions and trauma leave for at least five air traffic controllers.
  • United Airlines continues to cancel 35 daily round-trip flights at Newark, citing ongoing FAA staffing shortages and technological challenges.
  • Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced a multibillion-dollar, multi-year modernization plan to replace outdated ATC systems with advanced fiber, wireless, and satellite technologies.
  • Lawmakers and industry leaders are urging immediate steps, including relocating controllers to the region and offering bonuses, to address staffing shortages and maintain safety in one of the world's busiest airspaces.