United Airlines reports disruptions at Newark amid air traffic controller shortage

Airports in the New York City area have been significantly affected by these shortages. Airlines are dealing with increased costs related to cancellations and delays as well as extended flight and taxi times.

Earlier this year, airlines requested an extension for minimum flight requirements at busy New York City-area airports. Typically, airlines must operate 80% of their scheduled flights to retain landing and takeoff slots at congested airports. However, they struggled to meet this requirement due to ATC-related congestion. In response, the FAA extended these minimum requirements through October 2025.

As Thanksgiving approaches—a peak travel period—the FAA anticipates potential delays caused by staffing shortages but plans to implement traffic flow management initiatives during this time. Despite efforts to hire new ATC personnel—over 1,800 new hires this year—the shortage remains acute with no immediate resolution expected.