FAA reduces flights into and out of Newark airport amid air traffic concerns

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Tuesday significantly reduced the air traffic in and out of New Jersey's Newark Liberty International Airport, after multiple issues recently caused severe flight delays and cancellations.

The airport has seen a string of complications recently, including multiple equipment malfunctions due to an outdated system, low air traffic control staffing and ongoing runway construction.

Flights through Newark will now be capped at 28 departures and 28 arrivals per hour through June 15, and every Saturday from September through December, the FAA said. Outside of the runway construction period, it is limiting the hourly arrivals and departures to 34 each way until Oct. 25, 2025.

“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,” Acting FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau said in a statement.

The airport was previously allowed to receive and send out more than 80-flights an hour before the mishaps, per the New York Post.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy also responded to the announcement, stating he would continue to work with the FAA to fix the staffing issues and other problems the airport is facing. 

"This interim step will ensure families aren’t stuck with endless delays and cancellations," he said. "In the meantime, we will continue training air traffic controllers to address staffing shortages and expedite telecommunication fixes the last administration missed."

The changes have gone into effect immediately.

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.