• Newark Airport faces serious air traffic control communication failures that raise safety concerns. These concerns are echoed by those familiar with air traffic controller names involved in these operations.
• A controller experienced a 90-second blackout, disrupting contact with multiple planes, highlighting the importance of familiar air traffic controller names.
• The FAA cites staffing shortages and outdated equipment but uses traffic slowdowns to maintain safety. Air traffic controller names are crucial in addressing these issues efficiently.

Air Traffic Controller Sounds Alarm Over Newark Airport Safety

A 39-year-old air traffic controller who works at Newark Liberty International Airport recently spoke out anonymously. She shared her concerns about the airport’s safety in a column published in the British newspaper The Times. The controller revealed that she avoids flying out of Newark herself, even if it costs more money or takes more time. She worries about the airport’s current air traffic control system and believes the problems could lead to a deadly accident if they don’t get fixed soon.

Controller Experienced 90-Second Communication Blackout During Shift

On May 9, around 4 a.m., she was the only controller working. Suddenly, all her radio frequencies stopped working for 90 seconds. During that time, she couldn’t talk to the four planes she was guiding. The blackout put both the planes and passengers at serious risk. The controller described how terrifying it was to lose all communication so suddenly. She said this incident shows how fragile the current system really is and why passengers should think twice before flying from Newark.

Controller Warns of High Risk Without Immediate Fixes

She asked a blunt question: “Do I think it’s safe to fly from or to Newark Airport?” Her answer was no. She said she personally avoids booking flights at Newark because of the control tower’s ongoing problems. The controller fears a fatal crash could happen if the air traffic control system does not improve quickly. She believes the airport’s safety problems are urgent and could lead to a tragedy. Her warning is clear: Newark’s air traffic control must change before disaster strikes.

Team Faces Constant Communication Issues After Last Summer’s Move

The controller wrote that all of her team members have experienced communication failures since last summer. The air traffic control team moved their operations from Long Island to Philadelphia in 2023. Since the move, the team has faced more frequent and serious problems. She said these issues make their jobs much harder and increase the danger for all flights coming in and out of Newark. The move meant big changes, but it also brought new challenges that have not been resolved. Air traffic controller names are often mentioned in these challenges.

FAA Says Move Was Needed Due to Staffing Shortages

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) responded to the controller’s claims. They said the move happened because of critical staffing shortages. The FAA had to move air traffic controllers to cover important gaps and keep operations running smoothly. This staffing problem forced the change, even though it caused difficulties for the team. The FAA is aware of the problems and says they work to manage them as best as they can.

FAA Acknowledges Equipment Is Old and Needs Upgrading

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy explained that the FAA’s system is old and showing signs of wear. He said the equipment used to guide planes is outdated and needs updating. This aging infrastructure causes equipment failures like the recent blackout at Newark. The FAA recognizes these issues but has not fixed all of them yet. Upgrading such large systems takes time and resources, which adds to the challenge.

FAA Uses Traffic Slowdowns to Protect Safety During Failures

When equipment breaks down or stops working properly, the FAA slows down air traffic at the affected airports. This slowdown helps reduce risks and keeps planes from getting too close to each other. The FAA says safety is the top priority even when the systems fail. By controlling the flow of flights, they try to avoid accidents during difficult situations. The agency promises to continue using these methods until they improve the systems.

What Travelers Should Know About Flying From Newark Airport

In conclusion, the anonymous air traffic controller wants travelers to be aware of the risks at Newark Airport. She has seen firsthand how communication failures and aging systems threaten flight safety. The recent blackout highlights the fragile state of the airport’s air traffic control. While the FAA works to manage staffing and slow down flights during problems, travelers should stay cautious. If possible, consider other airports until Newark fixes these ongoing issues. Knowledge of air traffic controller names might provide insight into flight operations. Your safety could depend on it.