90-second Newark blackout exposes parlous state of US air traffic control
Newark Liberty International Airport faced a troubling 90-second blackout when all radar and radio systems failed, resulting in chaos for air traffic controllers and significant flight cancellations. The incident, attributed to a single copper wire causing short circuits, has raised alarms about the reliability of US air traffic control systems, prompting widespread concern from airlines and regulators.
Key Points
- Newark air traffic controllers lost all radar and communications for 90 seconds, causing panic and distress among staff.
- The incident was caused by a single unsheathed copper wire shorting equipment, leading to communication failures with aircraft.
- Over 1,000 flights were cancelled or delayed following the blackout, with ongoing disruptions reported.
- 20% of air traffic control staff have resigned or taken leave due to stress, exacerbating staffing shortages.
- The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced new measures to recruit and retain air traffic controllers.
Why should I read this?
This piece shines a spotlight on a frightening event that underlines a bigger issue with air traffic control in the US. If you fly—or even if you know someone who does—you’ll want to grasp how something so seemingly simple as communication can go drastically wrong, potentially impacting millions. This is a must-read for anyone concerned about aviation safety or the efficiency of our transport networks.