Newark Airport Endures Major Delays Amid U.S. Government Shutdown and Staffing Issues
Newark Liberty International Airport is witnessing major flight delays, with average ground waits reaching up to eighty-eight minutes. This disruption ties directly to air traffic control staffing shortages that have intensified amid the current U.S. government shutdown. The lengthy delays are impacting both flight operations and passengers, with no clear resolution timeline.
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Newark Liberty International Airport is currently facing a wave of significant flight delays as a direct result of a deepening air traffic control staffing crisis, further aggravated by the ongoing U.S. government shutdown. Passengers are experiencing ground waits that have escalated to as much as eighty-eight minutes, highlighting the severe operational challenges at the airport.
The disruption has affected both arriving and departing flights, causing extensive inconvenience for airlines and travelers alike. Staffing shortages within the air traffic control sector emerged as the critical issue, with the shutdown halting the hiring and training of new controllers and stretching existing resources, which decreases the ability to efficiently manage air traffic volumes.
Airlines operating at Newark Liberty International have reported difficulties in maintaining regular flight schedules. The extended delays ripple through the airport’s timetable, producing knock-on effects for subsequent flights and connecting passengers. Authorities have not yet provided a concrete date for resolution, as the end of the government shutdown remains uncertain.
Passengers affected by these delays are being advised to closely monitor their flight status and keep in communication with their respective airlines. The situation underscores the vulnerability of U.S. airport operations to federal workforce disruptions and the essential role of consistent air traffic management.
Know your rights
In situations such as a technical outage or a government shutdown, it’s important for passengers to understand their rights and available options during travel disruptions.
While these events are generally beyond the control of airlines and airports, passengers still have certain protections under U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations.
Refund or rebooking
If a flight is canceled or experiences a significant delay, passengers are entitled to a full refund if they choose not to travel. Most airlines also offer rebooking on the next available flight at no additional cost.
Food and essential care
Some airlines may also provide additional assistance — such as meal vouchers or hotel accommodation during overnight delays — but this is not required by law and varies depending on the airline’s individual policies.
Quick facts
Disruption:
Delay
Cause:
Other
Compensation:
Not eligible for compensation
Status:
Current disruption
Airports affected:
Newark Liberty International Airport
Checked by:
Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt
Date updated:
October 10, 2025