Newark Liberty International Airport is grappling with a critical shortage of air traffic controllers, raising significant safety concerns, according to reports. On Monday evening, during peak hours between 6:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., only one fully certified air traffic controller, assisted by a trainee, was responsible for managing up to 180 takeoffs and landings. This starkly contrasts the standard staffing level of 15 controllers required to oversee operations during such busy periods safely.

An anonymous controller described the situation as “pure insanity,” emphasizing the risks of such minimal staffing. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) acknowledged the staffing challenges but assured that there would be “no point” when zero controllers are present, without specifying the number of fully certified personnel on duty.

The crisis was narrowly averted earlier in the day when a controller volunteered to work on his scheduled day off. This prevented what insiders refer to as a “zero ATC event,” in which no certified personnel are available to operate the control tower.

Newark’s control room typically operates with five separate radar scopes, each managed by a certified controller to monitor different airspace sectors. With only one or two certified individuals available, the remaining staff managed multiple sectors simultaneously, a highly risky setup in one of the nation’s busiest airspaces.

This staffing crisis at Newark is part of a broader national issue. The FAA currently faces a nationwide shortage of approximately 3,000 air traffic controllers, leading to increased workloads and stress for existing staff. In response, the FAA has implemented measures such as limiting flight operations at Newark to manage controller workload safely and is expediting training programs to address the shortage. 

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has announced plans for a comprehensive overhaul of the air traffic control system, including replacing outdated equipment and hiring additional controllers. However, these long-term solutions require substantial funding and time to implement. 

In the interim, the FAA is convening meetings with major U.S. airlines to propose reducing flights at Newark to alleviate the strain on the limited air traffic control staff. 

The situation underscores the urgent need for investment in the nation’s air traffic control infrastructure to ensure the safety and efficiency of air travel.