• Newark Liberty International Airport faces disruptions as United Airlines cuts 35 daily flights due to air traffic controller shortages.
• Staffing issues in the FAA are leading to significant delays of up to four hours and numerous cancellations.
• Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy's administration is focused on recruiting new air traffic controllers and addressing outdated technology.

At Newark Liberty International Airport, significant disruptions have been reported as United Airlines has cut 35 daily flights starting Saturday, attributing this decision to ongoing air traffic controller shortages. This has stemmed from the failure of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to effectively manage staffing levels, with over 20% of the controllers leaving their posts recently, compounding existing problems at the airport. The cuts represent about 10% of United's domestic round-trip schedule, underscoring the operational impact of the staffing crisis, according to Los Angeles Times and Times of India.

Delays and cancellations have plagued Newark airport over the weekend, affecting hundreds of travelers due to a combination of issues, including air traffic controller shortages, outdated FAA technology, and ongoing runway construction. These challenges have resulted in average delays of nearly two hours, with some arrivals delayed up to four hours and cancellations continuing into Monday, as highlighted by flight tracking services, according to Newsweek and Los Angeles Times.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has announced efforts to strengthen the air traffic controller workforce through new recruitment initiatives and retention incentives for existing personnel, acknowledging the pressing issues faced at Newark and nationwide. The need for upgrades to air traffic control technology has also been emphasized, as current systems are unable to manage the incoming volume of air traffic effectively, according to Newsweek and Times of India.

Safety concerns have also been raised, with reports suggesting that passengers should "avoid Newark at all costs" due to the significant operational challenges currently facing the airport. Furthermore, the FAA is in the process of implementing a Ground Delay Program to manage the congestion at Newark, thereby seeking to minimize further delays while supporting some departures, according to Newsweek and Times of India.