Newark Airport Enters Second Week of Disruptions After Controllers Take Leave

Travelers at Newark Liberty International are hit with major delays and cancellations for an eighth straight day.

Jack Daleo

Monday, May 05, 2025 at 02:21 PM ET

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Jack Daleo

Scott Kirby, CEO of United Airlines, which uses Newark as a hub, said air traffic controllers are walking off the job. [Courtesy: George Wirt/Shutterstock]

Key Takeaways:

Newark Liberty International Airport (KEWR) is experiencing severe and prolonged flight disruptions, including hundreds of daily delays and cancellations, which have persisted for over a week.
These disruptions are primarily caused by a combination of chronic air traffic controller staffing shortages (exacerbated by recent FAA reassignments and a national shortfall), outdated air traffic control equipment, and ongoing runway construction.
Major airlines, particularly United, are heavily impacted, and significant disruptions are expected to continue for months, as the long-term solutions for staffing and system overhauls will take years to implement.

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Newark Liberty International Airport (KEWR) is off to a troubling start to the week.

For the eighth consecutive day, the bustling airport in New Jersey is delaying and canceling hundreds of flights with no sign of a return to normalcy. According to FlightAware, Newark experienced 482 delays and 141 cancellations on Sunday alone. By 2 p.m. EDT on Monday, the flight tracker reported 270 delays and 150 cancellations.