NEWARK, N.J. — Flights at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) — one of the busiest hubs in the United States — experienced major delays on Sunday, October 26, due to a critical shortage of air traffic controllers.
The issue underscores an ongoing nationwide crisis in the air traffic control system that has been building for decades and is now being worsened by the federal government shutdown.
Staffing Shortages Trigger Nationwide Delays
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the control center responsible for Newark’s airspace was severely understaffed, leading to significant operational disruptions:
- Average arrival delays: 1 hour 22 minutes
- Average departure delays: 26 minutes
- Total flights delayed: 348
- Cancellations: 7
The FAA also reported delays at other major airports, including Phoenix, Houston, and San Diego, and warned that similar disruptions could affect airports in New York City, Dallas, and Philadelphia in the coming days.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy attributed the shortage partly to an increase in sick calls among controllers, acknowledging the mounting strain on the system.
“We’re seeing more controllers unable to report for duty due to stress and financial pressure. The system is under incredible strain,” Duffy said.
Shutdown Deepens the Crisis
Air traffic controllers are classified as essential federal employees, meaning they must continue working during the shutdown — without pay.
Tuesday, October 28, marked their first unpaid payday, adding financial stress to an already overworked and understaffed workforce.
Many controllers report struggling to cover rent, mortgages, and family expenses, with some taking mandatory overtime or additional jobs to make ends meet.
System Under Pressure
Air traffic control is widely recognized as one of the most stressful professions. Controllers are required to maintain constant vigilance in congested airspace to ensure flight safety.
However, the combination of staff shortages, aging equipment, and budgetary neglect has created an increasingly unsafe environment.
A stark reminder came last May, when a technical failure at the Philadelphia control facility — now responsible for Newark’s airspace — left controllers blind and out of contact for 90 seconds.
Although no accidents occurred, the incident highlighted how vulnerable the system has become.
Fewer Controllers, More Flights
The staffing crisis has been building for decades.
| Year | Certified Controllers | Daily Flights |
|---|---|---|
| 1981 | 17,000 | 14,000 |
| 2025 | 10,600 | 44,000 |
That’s a 38% drop in staffing since 1981 — even as air traffic volume has tripled.
Experts say this imbalance has created a dangerous situation where too few controllers are managing too many aircraft, increasing the risk of delays, errors, and near-miss incidents.
What’s Next for Travelers and the FAA
With the shutdown continuing and staffing levels stretched thin, passengers should expect further delays and cancellations at major U.S. airports.
The FAA has stated that flight slowdowns and spacing restrictions may be used to maintain safety standards if staffing continues to deteriorate.
Travel experts recommend that passengers:
- Check flight status frequently before arriving at the airport.
- Allow extra time for connections.
- Monitor airline updates for rebooking or compensation options.
