U.S. transportation chief to reduce flights into Newark after ongoing technical issues

U. S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy announced a reduction in flight schedules at Newark Liberty International Airport due to ongoing air traffic control issues. A recent technical problem resulted in a 45-minute ground stop at Newark, the second such incident in two weeks, while Atlanta faced delays for over 700 flights due to a runway equipment failure.

Duffy highlighted a critical shortage of approximately 3,000 air traffic controllers nationwide and stressed the need for infrastructure upgrades. The administration's multibillion-dollar overhaul plan includes the establishment of six new air traffic control centers and significant technology enhancements across the country over the next three years. This initiative aims to address the aging air traffic control system, which has faced increasing stress. United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby assured that air travel remains safe despite these outages. As Memorial Day approaches, the expected increase in air travel to over 3.

6 million passengers raises concerns regarding the ongoing technical issues. The situation underscores the urgent need for modernization in air traffic management.