Problems at Newark Airport may continue following days of disruptions and now a cutback on daily flights by United.
There have been hundreds of flights delayed or cancelled at the airport pretty much every day for more than a week now. The FAA put the blame on equipment issues, air traffic controller staffing shortages and a runway out of action. It was learned that air traffic controllers briefly lost communication between them and pilots early last week. Union officials say a handful of air traffic controllers then went on leave under rules that allow that for workers who experience a traumatic event, creating an even further shortage.
That has prompted calls from numerous local politicians to call on the federal government to do something about it. Governor Phil Murphy calls the situation completely unacceptable. New Jersey Congressman Josh Gottheimer wants action.
"We must immediately surge our investment and fix the technology issues at Newark Airport and our airports around the country."
Last Friday, United announced its cutting 35 daily flights out of Newark with CEO Scott Kirby saying there's no short-term resolutions to FAA staffing issues. U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy says there's an effort underway to recruit more air traffic controllers. Duffy also plans to bring a new air traffic control system in place. He plans to give more details later in the week.