Trump Administration to Overhaul U.S. Air Traffic Control, Build 6 New Centers Amid Newark Airport Crisis

Newark Liberty International Airport is facing significant operational challenges due to staffing shortages, equipment malfunctions, and ongoing construction, leading to numerous flight delays and cancellations. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is taking immediate steps to address the situation at Newark and plans a broader overhaul of the U.S. air traffic control system. President Donald Trump has announced plans to replace technology at thousands of air traffic control sites across the country and build six new coordination centers. This initiative aims to modernize the system, which Trump described as long overdue for a 'remaking' to meet modern standards. The plan includes replacing over 600 radars, installing 4,000 new high-speed network connections, and purchasing 25,000 new radios. The urgency of these upgrades was highlighted by a 90-second radar and communications blackout at Newark on April 28, caused by a fried copper wire, which left air traffic controllers unable to see or communicate with incoming flights for 30 seconds, with planes reappearing on screens within 30-60 seconds. This incident resulted in over 4,000 delays and more than 1,000 cancellations at Newark. The FAA is addressing staffing issues by training 21 new controllers and 2,000 trainees, and improving communication lines between centers. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized the need for these changes, stating that without modernization, similar disruptions could occur at other airports across the country. The proposed overhaul is expected to cost billions of dollars and take up to four years to implement, with the administration seeking Congressional approval for the necessary funding. The FAA is currently 3,500 controllers short of its target, and United Airlines cut 20% of its Newark schedule due to the crisis. Controllers are entitled to up to 45 days off for trauma leave.