Travelers flying through Newark Liberty International Airport over Memorial Day weekend faced a rough start to the summer. More than 300 flights were delayed or canceled, and long lines stretched through terminals. For many people, trips were either cut short or ruined altogether.
In this post, we’ll explain what caused the disruptions, how they’re affecting travelers, and what legal options might be available. New Jersey personal injury lawyers stay up to date on local developments that affect the public. When issues like this impact thousands of people, we believe it’s important to help you understand what’s happening and how to protect your rights.
What’s Causing the Disruptions?
Flight Delays and Cancellations
The most noticeable problem for travelers has been the number of delayed and canceled flights. During the Memorial Day weekend, over 300 delays were reported. Some people waited for hours at the airport. Others had their flights canceled at the last minute, with few options to rebook.
These issues didn’t stop after the holiday. Many flights continue to be delayed or canceled every day, and the reasons go deeper than just bad luck or weather.
Air Traffic Control Problems
One of the biggest issues is with air traffic control systems. On May 9, there was a 90-second communication and radar blackout. That might not sound long, but it’s a serious problem when planes are in the air and contact with them is lost.
Controllers temporarily lost communication with multiple aircraft, which raised alarms. This kind of issue puts stress on the entire system and shows that parts of the infrastructure need major updates.
Not Enough Staff
There’s also a staffing shortage among air traffic controllers at Newark. The FAA has only 24 certified controllers, while the goal is 38. On top of that, about one-third of the staff is on trauma leave, dealing with stress and burnout caused by system outages and heavy workloads.
When fewer people are doing more work, delays become more likely. And when outages happen, the strain gets even worse.
FAA Flight Reductions to Manage the Problem
Temporary Caps on Flights
To try and reduce delays and improve safety, the FAA has capped the number of flights allowed at Newark:
- Until June 15, there’s a limit of 56 flights per hour, which is about 30% fewer than normal.
- From June 16 through October 25, that cap increases slightly to 68 flights per hour on days when there’s no construction.
Why the Flight Limits Were Put in Place
The FAA says the flight caps are necessary because of persistent overcrowding, staffing issues, and system failures. They want to reduce traffic at the airport so that the staff and systems already in place can manage things more safely and efficiently.
How Travelers and Airlines Are Being Affected
The Traveler Experience
Passengers have faced missed connections, long waits, and general uncertainty. Some travelers were stuck at the airport all day, while others had to change plans altogether. The TSA has warned people to expect congestion and disruptions during the summer months.
What Airlines Are Doing
United Airlines, which handles about 70% of Newark’s flights, has responded by reducing 35 daily round-trip flights. Other airlines are working with the FAA to adjust schedules and avoid overcrowding. These changes might help long term, but for now, travelers are still dealing with the fallout.
What Are Your Rights as a Traveler?
Compensation and Airline Responsibilities
If your flight is delayed or canceled, you may be entitled to compensation or assistance. Airlines are required to follow federal regulations, especially when disruptions are within their control. That could mean rebooking, hotel stays, or meal vouchers — depending on the situation.
When Legal Help Might Be Needed
If your experience involved negligence or failure to provide assistance, you may have options. For example, if the airline didn’t offer help after canceling your flight, or if you suffered financial loss due to poor communication, it’s worth looking into your rights.
Always keep records of your travel, including receipts, emails, and any communication with the airline. This information can be helpful if you decide to file a complaint or seek legal advice.
Conclusion
The problems at Newark Airport show how important it is to have strong infrastructure, enough trained staff, and clear systems in place. Until these issues are fully addressed, travelers will likely continue to face delays and disruptions.
At NJ Injury Lawyers, P.C., we’re here to support the community and help when things go wrong. If you’ve been affected by recent airport delays and think your rights were violated, we’re ready to listen and help you understand your legal options.
Summer travel should be something to look forward to — not something to stress about. Stay informed, know your rights, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help.
