The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is proposing a significant reduction in aircraft movements at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) due to ongoing operational challenges including runway rehabilitation and air traffic control (ATC) outages. United, Delta, JetBlue, and American Airlines Support FAA’s 30% Flight Reduction Proposal at Newark Amid Runway Rehab and ATC Shortages.

The move aims to maintain safety and improve reliability amid persistent disruptions that have impacted flights and passenger experiences.

Background: Runway Rehabilitation and Operational Challenges

Since April 15, 2025, Newark’s runway 4L/22R has been closed for essential rehabilitation work, a project expected to continue until June 15, 2025. The runway’s partial closure is part of a broader infrastructure maintenance program intended to ensure the long-term safety and efficiency of one of the nation’s busiest airports.

Following its scheduled reopening, the runway will remain closed on Saturdays only for further minor repairs until the end of the year, which will continue to limit runway availability during peak weekend travel periods.

The runway closure compounds challenges already faced by Newark airport due to recent radar outages experienced in April and May 2025. These technological failures caused widespread flight delays and cancellations. Moreover, the incidents led to the trauma leave of five air traffic controllers, further straining the airport’s ATC workforce.

Current Traffic Volume and Proposed Restrictions

Despite the operational challenges, Newark Airport has been handling approximately 40 arrivals and 40 departures per hour, close to the airport’s usual capacity.

However, following consultations with major airlines operating at Newark—including United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue Airways, American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and Allegiant Air—the FAA has proposed capping total hourly aircraft movements at 56 per hour (split evenly as 28 arrivals and 28 departures).

This represents a 30% reduction from current volumes and is designed to alleviate congestion and reduce delays. Once runway 4L/22R fully reopens, the FAA plans to raise this cap to 68 movements per hour (34 arrivals and 34 departures), effective until October 25, 2025.

The FAA has opened the proposal for public commentary, inviting stakeholders and travelers to provide feedback before a final decision is made after May 28, 2025.

Impact on Airlines and Airport Operations

Among the airlines most affected by these changes is United Airlines, for whom Newark is a major hub. Despite the potential disruption, United has expressed support for the FAA’s proposed restrictions, emphasizing safety and operational reliability.

“Reducing the number of flights scheduled at Newark will help ensure that we can safely and reliably operate the flights that remain on the schedule,” said a United Airlines spokesperson.

The move is expected to help streamline operations during the runway works and ongoing ATC workforce shortages, which currently see only 24 controllers managing the combined airspace, compared to the ideal staffing level of 38 .

Air Traffic Control Workforce Challenges

The staffing shortfall at Newark is part of a broader nationwide issue affecting the Federal Aviation Administration. As reported by the FAA and government oversight bodies, the U.S. faces a significant air traffic controller shortage impacting multiple facilities.

Recruitment challenges, retirement rates, and extensive training requirements contribute to the deficit. The shortage places added pressure on existing controllers, raising concerns about workload, safety margins, and the ability to manage increasing air traffic volumes efficiently.

FAA’s Infrastructure and Modernization Initiatives

The FAA’s proposal to reduce traffic at Newark is intertwined with ongoing infrastructure upgrades, including runway rehabilitation and the implementation of NextGen air traffic management technologies aimed at modernizing the U.S. airspace system.

NextGen initiatives focus on incorporating satellite-based navigation, automated surveillance, and improved communication technologies to enhance safety, increase capacity, and reduce environmental impact.

The Newark runway rehabilitation project aligns with these modernization efforts by upgrading aging infrastructure critical to safe and efficient operations.

Passenger and Community Implications

While the proposed reductions are intended to improve safety and reliability, they may cause short-term inconvenience for passengers, including flight delays, cancellations, and reduced scheduling flexibility.

Airport and city officials are balancing the immediate operational needs with the long-term benefits of infrastructure improvements. The FAA encourages travelers to stay informed through airline updates and airport advisories.

Environmental benefits from reduced congestion and improved efficiency are also notable, contributing to the FAA’s commitment to sustainable aviation goals.

Next Steps and Public Engagement

The FAA’s proposal is subject to a public consultation process, allowing airlines, passengers, local communities, and other stakeholders to provide input on the traffic reduction plan. This transparent process helps the FAA make informed decisions that consider safety, economic impact, and community welfare.

Following the comment period ending on May 28, 2025, the FAA will review feedback and issue a final decision, with implementation planned to coincide with runway reopening and phased restoration of full capacity.

Conclusion

The FAA’s proposal to reduce aircraft movements at Newark Liberty International Airport amid runway construction and air traffic controller shortages reflects a necessary balance between maintaining operational safety and minimizing disruption.

With support from airlines like United and ongoing investments in infrastructure and technology, the U.S. air traffic control system is poised to emerge stronger, offering safer and more reliable air travel for passengers.

Travelers are advised to plan accordingly and monitor updates from airlines and airport authorities during this transitional period.

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