Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), a major hub for United Airlines, faced significant disruptions on April 28, 2025, due to technical malfunctions and staffing shortages.
These issues caused widespread delays, cancellations, and frustration for thousands of travelers. We explore the causes, impacts, and ongoing challenges at one of the United States busiest airports.
Technical Malfunctions Cause Chaos
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported telecommunications and radar equipment failures at the Philadelphia Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON). This is the facility which oversees Newark’s airspace.
According to the FAA statement: “The FAA is slowing arrivals and departures at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) after telecommunications and equipment issues at Philadelphia TRACON, which guides aircraft in and out of EWR. Both have been resolved but now there are staffing issues at Philadelphia TRACON.”
This malfunction triggered a ground stop, halting arrivals and departures. United Airlines diverted at least 35 flights to other airports, while departures faced 30-minute delays and arrivals were delayed by 15 minutes on average. Delays grew worse throughout the day, snarling operations.
On April 8, 2025, a similar equipment outage caused delays averaging 146 minutes, lasting into the next morning. Aging FAA infrastructure continues to pose challenges, with experts warning that outdated systems are prone to failure.
The technical issues on April 28 were resolved, but the damage was done, leaving airlines and passengers scrambling.
Staffing Shortages Worsen the Crisis
Once the equipment was fixed, a new problem emerged: staffing shortages at Philadelphia TRACON. The FAA struggled to manage Newark’s air traffic with limited air traffic controllers (ATCs).
United Airlines warned of cancellations and delays for the rest of the day, citing the controller shortfall. This issue is part of a broader crisis. The FAA is 3,500 controllers short of its target, with 90% of U.S. airport control towers understaffed.
Social media posts from April 27 described delays of up to nine hours, blaming overwhelmed air traffic controllers.
Controllers are working six-day weeks and 10-hour shifts, leading to fatigue and reduced efficiency. This chronic understaffing amplifies disruptions, especially during peak travel times or unexpected events like equipment failures.
Additional Challenges at Newark
On top of the FAA technical and staffing woes, Newark faces other hurdles. From April to June 2025, its primary runway (4R-22L) is undergoing rehabilitation. This may cause further delays, especially if weather or staffing issues persist.
A 2025 study ranked Newark as the second-most chaotic U.S. airport, with 40.67% of daily flights delayed. These factors paint a rather concerning picture for travelers.
Looking Ahead
The Newark Liberty disruption on Monday left passengers stranded, with diverted flights and long waits. As of Tuesday, April 29, operations were recovering slowly, but delays and cancellations were expected to continue.
Travelers should check flight statuses on airline apps or websites for real-time updates. The FAA has not issued further statements, and the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) are yet to comment.
The U.S. aviation sector is pushing for emergency funding to modernize ATC technology and hire more controllers.
Without action, Newark and other airports risk ongoing disruptions. For now, passengers should plan for potential delays and stay informed.
Buy Our Magazine – April Edition Out Now!
