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Air travel disruptions continue amid rising complaints and aging infrastructure

Air travel disruptions continue amid rising complaints and aging infrastructure
Policy
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Newark Liberty International Airport | Official Website

When planning a trip, travelers often face the risk of flight delays, which can lead to missed connections during layovers. The United States Department of Transportation (DOT) provides monthly data on airline and airport performance through the Air Travel Consumer Report. This report highlights issues such as on-time performance, flight delays, cancellations, tarmac delays, luggage issues, and consumer complaints.

According to Generali Global Assistance's analysis of Bureau of Transport Statistics (BTS) data, Midway Airport in Chicago leads with 47% delayed flights as of December 2022. Other airports like Stapleton Airport in Denver and Baltimore-Washington International also rank high for delays.

A significant event at Newark Liberty International Airport raised concerns about infrastructure readiness. A faulty cable caused air traffic control issues on April 28, leading to scheduling limits by the Federal Aviation Administration that will remain until December 31. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy remarked on broader systemic issues: "What you see in Newark is going to happen in other places across the country."

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Increased passenger numbers coupled with a rise in complaints about delays suggest strain on current infrastructure. Teresa Murray from the Public Interest Research Group Education Fund noted an increase in passenger complaints: "Complaints in 2024 increased by so much - 9%. This makes it clear that travelers have found their voice."

Staffing shortages, increased air traffic post-pandemic, weather troubles, tech problems, and infrastructure upgrades are cited as common delay causes this year. Airlines For America estimated annual costs due to delays at $28 billion.

Passengers can mitigate risks by planning for delays and staying informed through airline apps. Booking earlier flights or longer layovers might help avoid missed connections.

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