We have read about the air traffic controllers losing track of planes causing significant traffic delays at Newark International Airport. But is this the truth?
In reality, these delays are due to a combination of factors, including an air traffic control staffing shortage, equipment outages, and runway construction. Specifically, a recent equipment failure in the Philadelphia Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON), which manages airspace for Newark, triggered a ground delay and led some controllers to take trauma leave.
Key Contributing Factors include:
A chronic shortage of air traffic controllers, exacerbated by the recent equipment outage and subsequent trauma leave, has reduced the capacity to handle the normal volume of flights.
A temporary loss of communication and radar feeds in the Philadelphia TRACON, which oversees Newark, led to delays and a ground stop.
Ongoing work on one of Newark’s busiest runways, scheduled for April 15 to mid-June, has closed it and diverted flights, contributing to congestion.
The FAA has acknowledged that the outdated air traffic control system in the region is contributing to the problems.
The union representing air traffic controllers clarified that controllers were taking leave due to the traumatic event, not a walkout, as reported by United Airlines
Many of these factors have contributed to the delays at Newark but the key question is what do you do if you are planning a trip departing or arriving Newark.
First step is to call you airline to find out if they are going to cancel or delay your flight. Following that, you may want to rebook for another flight departing from LaGuardia or John F Kennedy International Airports. It may end up costing you some additional monies but it may be money well spent. Air Travel is already stressful. Adding in delays that you have a high-level confidence will happen will only add to this stress level.