Use Our NJ Airport Instead, Politician Urges Amid Newark Mayhem
As Newark Liberty International Airport faces unprecedented delays and cancellations due to equipment failures and staff shortages, a New Jersey politician is urging travelers to consider Atlantic City International Airport as a viable alternative.
Located 111 miles from Newark, Atlantic City International Airport offers a significantly less chaotic travel experience with flights primarily operated by Spirit Airlines to Florida destinations including Orlando, Tampa, and Fort Lauderdale, according to Yahoo News.
Newark’s Crisis Deepens with Multiple System Failures
Newark’s troubles began on April 28 when air traffic controllers at the Philadelphia Terminal Radar Approach Control facility temporarily lost radar and communications with aircraft under their control. According to CNBC, controllers were “unable to see, hear, or talk to” planes for approximately 90 seconds.
The situation has deteriorated further with a third telecommunications outage occurring early Friday morning, though fortunately during off-peak hours. United Airlines has already cut 35 flights daily from its Newark schedule to reduce congestion.
Atlantic City Provides Relief for Some Travelers
Some travelers have already begun shifting their plans to alternative airports. “We came up here for a wedding. On Thursday we were delayed two or three times coming in here, and then we had to switch airports and fly into Atlantic City,” Florida resident Jay Lampiasi told CBS New York. “[Atlantic City] is easy. It’s so much easier.”
Transportation Secretary Plans Flight Reductions
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has announced plans to reduce flights at Newark “for the next several weeks” and will meet with major carriers to implement these reductions. Additionally, he has proposed a comprehensive overhaul of the nation’s air traffic control system, though implementation could take 3-4 years.
Alternative Options for Travelers
Beyond Atlantic City, New Jersey travelers can consider other regional alternatives including Philadelphia International Airport (92 miles from Newark), John F. Kennedy International Airport in Queens, or LaGuardia Airport. Many airlines are currently offering change fee waivers for passengers originally booked through Newark.
Infrastructure Challenges Driving Crisis
The ongoing issues at Newark reflect deeper infrastructure problems in the national air traffic control system. The antiquated technology used by controllers has been described as relying on “floppy disks” and “copper wires” by transportation officials seeking modernization funding.
The strain on controllers has become evident with reports that some have taken leave due to the stress of managing flights with failing equipment. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey stated that while they have “invested billions to modernize Newark Liberty, those improvements depend on a fully staffed and modern federal air traffic system.”
Economic Impact on the Region
The ripple effects of Newark’s disruptions extend beyond inconvenienced travelers. Local businesses reliant on tourism have reported declines in activity, while freight companies face delays in cargo operations. Regional transit companies including bus operators have reported substantial increases in ridership as travelers seek alternatives to air travel.
Experts warn that without immediate intervention, the economic costs could continue to mount, particularly as the summer travel season approaches and as the region prepares to host several major events, including next year’s World Cup Finals.
