Newark Airport Limits Flights Through End of The Year
Newark Liberty International Airport will operate under temporary flight restrictions through the end of 2025, according to a recent announcement by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The restrictions follow a series of severe operational disruptions that began in late April, when a critical air traffic control system failed unexpectedly. The outage left controllers temporarily unable to monitor or communicate with incoming flights, creating a highly stressful environment. In the aftermath, several air traffic controllers took trauma-related leave, exacerbating already limited staffing levels. Ongoing runway construction and equipment shortages have further compounded the situation, leading to significant delays and flight cancellations.
To help manage the strain, the FAA will limit the number of arrivals and departures at Newark. From September 1 through December 31, 2025, weekend operations will be capped at 28 arrivals and 28 departures per hour during periods of construction. At all other times, the airport will operate under a maximum of 34 arrivals and 34 departures per hour through October 25, 2025. These figures represent a substantial reduction from the airport’s typical rate of 50 to 54 flights per hour.
“These confirmed reduced rates will maintain safety while alleviating excessive flight delays at the airport due to staffing and equipment challenges,” the FAA stated.
Some improvements are already underway. Runway repairs were completed ahead of schedule, contributing to smoother operations over the Memorial Day weekend. The FAA credits the reduced schedule for helping ease congestion during the busy holiday period. Further enhancements are planned, including hiring additional air traffic controllers and upgrading telecommunications systems.
“Our goal is to relieve the substantial inconvenience to the traveling public from excessive flight delays due to construction, staffing challenges, and recent equipment issues, which magnify as they spread through the National Airspace System,” said Acting FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau.