United Airlines has blamed air traffic controller (ATC) shortages for delays to over 343,000 of its passengers so far this month at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR).
In a statement published yesterday, United said that safe and efficient air travel depends on the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rebuilding staffing levels.
United claims that FAA understaffing delayed 45,644 customers on Nov. 23 alone. The problems come despite the FAA surpassing recruiting targets in September.
The FAA website currently reports ground delays at EWR averaging 95 minutes due to “staffing”.
United’s statement emphasised that:
The single most consequential thing anyone can do to improve the flying experience is to fully staff the FAA.
EWR representatives warned customers yesterday that:
Due to FAA issues, travellers may experience flight delays at EWR. Check your flight status and allow extra time at the airport.
The FAA said that in:
the Newark airspace, the FAA is addressing a decades-long issue of staffing and has been transparent with airlines and travellers about our plan.
A record-breaking holiday travel period
United’s comments come as the New York metropolitan area, which EWR serves, anticipates record-breaking passenger numbers over the peak Thanksgiving travel period from Nov. 25 to Dec. 2.
Approximately 3.2 million passengers will travel through John F. Kennedy International, Newark Liberty International, LaGuardia and New York Stewart International airports during the eight-day period, estimates the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.
The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) expects to screen 18.3 million passengers from Nov 26. To Dec. 2 during its “busiest ever” Thanksgiving travel period. The figure represents a 6% increase in passenger volumes from 2023.
With airlines also facing recent staffing shortages, recruitment will be an industry priority over the coming months.
Have you faced ATC delays? Let us know in the comments below!
