Duffy Cautions About ‘Vulnerable’ System Following Newark Air Traffic Controllers’ Communication Loss with Aircraft

May 6, 2025 TruthUSA

The Transportation Secretary reported that the primary communication line experienced a failure, and the backup system did not activate, leading to a 30-second interruption in contact with air traffic.

Last week, air traffic controllers at Newark Liberty International Airport lost contact with aircraft for 30 seconds, causing significant flight delays and cancellations amid issues related to staffing and outdated technology, as noted by U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy.

“The main communication line went down, and since the backup didn’t kick in, we lost contact with air traffic for 30 seconds,” Duffy explained during an appearance on Fox News’ “The Ingraham Angle” on Monday. “Were planes in danger? No. They are equipped with communication devices. However, this incident highlights the fragility of our system, which needs urgent improvements.”

Duffy indicated that he intends to propose a comprehensive plan on Thursday, requesting billions from Congress for a complete overhaul of air traffic control infrastructure and staffing.

The National Air Traffic Controllers Association confirmed on Monday that controllers in Philadelphia, who manage Newark’s airspace, temporarily lost both radar contact and communications with aircraft on April 28.

Scott Kirby, CEO of United Airlines—the largest operator of flights from Newark—sent an email to customers on Friday, stating that 20 percent of the FAA controllers assigned to Newark had walked off the job.

However, the controllers’ union clarified on Monday that the employees had not walked off but had taken absences covered by the Federal Employees Compensation Act, which allows for absences due to injury or on-the-job trauma.

In the meantime, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) stated in a Monday post that several controllers in Philadelphia managing Newark arrivals and departures “have taken time off to recover from the stress of the recent outages.”

Moreover, the FAA acknowledged that frequent equipment and telecommunications failures add stress for the controllers. It is currently striving to improve the reliability of telecommunications equipment and to upgrade automation systems for better resilience.

“Our outdated air traffic control system is affecting our workforce. As Duffy emphasized, we need to equip controllers with the best safety technology as soon as possible,” the FAA noted.

The FAA is currently short of approximately 3,500 controllers from its target staffing levels, causing delays and compulsory overtime. Last year, control of Newark’s airspace was transferred to Philadelphia to alleviate congestion and staffing shortages in the New York City region.

“Chaotic Week”

United Airlines, Newark’s largest carrier, announced the cancellation of 35 flights daily—around 10 percent of its daily schedule—starting Saturday, following what Kirby termed a “chaotic week” characterized by delays and diversions due to technology failures.

In an email to customers on Friday, Kirby added, “The technology that FAA air traffic controllers rely on to oversee aircraft arriving at and departing from Newark failed—leading to numerous diverted flights, hundreds of delays and cancellations, and ultimately, thousands of customers left with disrupted travel plans.”

Kirby urged the government to classify Newark as a slot-controlled, Level 3 airport to restrict flight numbers to what the airport can adequately handle.

“By leveraging its authority, the FAA can help Newark achieve its significant potential as a safe, reliable, and efficient gateway for American travelers globally,” Kirby stated.

Reuters contributed to this report.

From NTD News

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