Newark Liberty International Airport is experiencing major delays for a sixth consecutive day due to critical air traffic control staffing shortages, with over 270 flights delayed on Saturday and some arriving flights facing three-hour waits.
United Airlines has begun cancelling 35 daily round-trip flights, citing technology issues and a dramatic shortage of FAA controllers—reportedly over 20% walked off the job. The FAA, which has not fully detailed the staffing problem, is investigating and has introduced financial incentives to address a nationwide shortfall of 3,000 controllers.
Ongoing runway repairs and a relocated control facility are compounding the disruption just ahead of the busy summer travel season.