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Travel Challenges at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
Traveling through Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) continues to be problematic as delays stretch into a second week. In response, airlines are providing passengers with the flexibility to change their flight plans throughout much of May. However, the end of these disruptions remains uncertain.
Last week’s flight issues stemmed from a failure in crucial air traffic control equipment at the Philadelphia facility managing EWR’s airspace. Following this, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced a significant number of air traffic controllers took leave, exacerbating an existing staffing crisis.
Significant Delays
As a result of these combined factors, EWR has experienced widespread delays, particularly affecting United Airlines, the dominant carrier at the airport. The airline announced on Friday that it would be suspending dozens of daily flights from its key hub indefinitely.
Compounding the situation, construction has closed off an essential runway, and the arrival of spring and summer thunderstorms is further complicating the already congested flight schedules, likely impacting passengers throughout the busy summer travel season.
Thousands of flights at EWR have faced disruptions since last week. Following a chaotic weekend, nearly half of all incoming flights were delayed on Monday, according to FlightAware data. On Tuesday, average delays reached around four hours, with hundreds of flights being canceled in the past week.
United Airlines’ Response
This situation has particularly affected United, which had to cut back on 35 daily round trips in an attempt to limit further disruptions for travelers. CEO Scott Kirby cited chronic air traffic controller shortages as a contributing factor, revealing that the FAA is short thousands of certified controllers.
In a letter to customers, Kirby noted that recent equipment failures coincided with 20% of controllers stepping away from duty.
In a statement, the National Air Traffic Controllers Association clarified that these leaves were taken for stress recovery, not as a walkout. They cited multiple recent outages, including a significant communications failure that left controllers unable to manage aircraft effectively.
Ongoing Issues and Solutions
Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy has emphasized the need for reform in the air traffic control system and hiring efforts, acknowledging the unacceptability of the recent outages and advocating for a comprehensive upgrade.
For now, Newark’s delays appear set to continue, especially with one of the busiest runways under construction until mid-June. While veteran air traffic controller Michael McCormick assured travelers of safety, he warned that arrangements would be frustrating.
Travel Options Available
For those with booked flights through EWR, changes can be made. United has extended a travel advisory for flights booked through May 17, allowing passengers to consider other nearby airports like LaGuardia (LGA). This flexibility even extends to typically restrictive basic economy tickets.
JetBlue is also waiving change and cancellation fees for travelers looking to modify their plans through May.
Recommendations for Travelers
With ongoing uncertainties at EWR, travelers may wonder whether to book flights through the airport in the coming months. Given United Airlines’ reductions in flight schedules, it’s prudent to consider alternatives.
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Explore Different Airports: When booking a trip, check options at alternative United hubs, such as Dulles International Airport (IAD).
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Opt for Nonstop and Early Flights: For any necessary travel through Newark, consider booking early morning nonstop flights to minimize the impact of delays. This approach can help avoid connection issues, especially during thunderstorms.
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Utilize Travel Insurance: Consider using a credit card that offers travel insurance, as it can help cover unexpected expenses due to disruptions. Make sure to book your trip with that card for coverage eligibility.
By being proactive and flexible, travelers can navigate the ongoing challenges at Newark Liberty International Airport.
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