Newark Airport Faces Significant Flight Delays Amid Staffing Shortages

NEWARK, New Jersey — Newark Liberty International Airport is experiencing a ground delay program due to staffing shortages in the control tower on Sunday. The shortage is creating significant delays for travelers heading into the New York City area.

Inbound flights to Newark are currently limited to about 20 arrivals per hour. NYC Emergency Management officials report that delays average approximately two hours, with some flights exceeding three hours. Such staffing issues have raised concerns that a full ground stop could be implemented if the situation worsens.

Passengers heading to Newark may encounter additional delays at their origin airports as flights are held on the ground. Departures from Newark are also delayed as gates become occupied by delayed incoming flights. Officials caution travelers to monitor their flight statuses closely and to be prepared for long waits, schedule changes, and potential missed connections.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy pointed out that air traffic controller absences are affecting operations at airports nationwide, with over 8,000 flight delays reported across the U.S. on Sunday alone. Staffing shortages at 22 locations have been recorded, contributing to the ongoing disruptions.

Airlines severely impacted include Southwest Airlines, which saw about 45% of its flights delayed, and American Airlines, which had nearly 1,200 flights delayed. The critical situation is exacerbated by the ongoing government shutdown, now in its fourth week, which has left approximately 13,000 air traffic controllers unpaid.

Sean Duffy emphasized the stress controllers face as they work without compensation, stating, “They’re confronted with a decision: Do I put food on my kids’ table, do I put gas in the car, do I pay my rent, or do I go to work and not get paid?” Meanwhile, some controllers are seeking second jobs to manage their financial challenges.

The impact of Newark’s delays extends beyond its gates, as backups are starting to affect operations at other New York area airports, including John F. Kennedy International Airport and LaGuardia Airport. Experts recommend travelers check flight details regularly, particularly during this challenging travel period.

As the situation evolves, the FAA and airport authorities are continuing to monitor staff levels and flight operations closely.