United Slashes Flights to Key Airport Amid Ongoing Air Traffic Challenges

NEW YORK — Newark Liberty International Airport faced significant travel disruptions on Saturday, resulting in numerous delays and cancellations. This turmoil stemmed from an ongoing shortage of air traffic controllers, a challenge that has drawn attention from the federal government.

The airport, which serves as a major hub just outside New York City, has experienced a week of interruptions. In response, United Airlines has decided to reduce its daily flights from Newark by 35, reflecting a substantial 10% of its domestic service.

United’s CEO, Scott Kirby, highlighted issues with the airport’s flight management technology, which has reportedly failed multiple times recently. Kirby noted that the situation worsened when over 20% of Newark’s traffic control staff unexpectedly “walked off the job.”

“This air traffic control facility has been chronically understaffed for years, and without these controllers, it’s clear that Newark airport cannot accommodate its scheduled operations,” Kirby stated in a letter to customers.

According to FAA reports, staffing deficiencies led to average flight delays of nearly two hours, and in some instances, delays extended to five hours for arrivals. Departures faced an average delay of 45 minutes.

By late afternoon, arrival delays had escalated to more than three hours, while departing flights showed improvement, averaging around 30 minutes of delay. The national ripple effect affected major airports including Los Angeles, Atlanta, Miami, and Chicago, as tracked by FlightAware.

Newark Liberty International Airport cited both ongoing staffing challenges and construction as contributing factors to the warning issued to travelers regarding delays. The Trump administration has initiated efforts to enhance the air traffic control workforce, aiming to alleviate these persistent issues.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy recently announced a program intended to recruit new air traffic controllers while providing incentives for existing staff to remain in their roles. However, the National Air Traffic Controllers Association has expressed that the system requires substantial upgrades to its technology and infrastructure.

Duffy visited air traffic controllers on Friday to discuss the ongoing equipment outages caused by outdated technology. This decision by United to cut flights comes at a critical juncture for U.S. airlines, as potential travelers weigh their options amid economic uncertainties linked to current trade policies.

From Newark, United provides service to 76 U.S. cities and 81 international destinations.