The 'Ripple Effect' of Staffing Changes

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) relocated 24 air traffic controllers from Long Island to Philadelphia on July 28, 2023. This move has taken a significant toll on Newark Liberty International Airport operations, resulting in 817 flight delays over a two-week period.

While delays can often be blamed on weather and maintenance issues, the relocation played a major role in the recent disruptions. FAA data revealed a troubling trend in flight operations immediately following the controllers' move, with 181 delays experienced on the day of the swap. The situation only degraded as the week continued, with 165 delays recorded on July 31 and 156 on August 1. Over 90 were observed on both August 4 and August 5, and 132 on August 8.

The FAA acknowledged that it purposefully slowed arrivals into the airport to allow the newly relocated controllers, who are still managing the Newark airspace, to acclimate to their new workspace. Due to the interconnectedness of air traffic operations, it is likely that airports across the country felt the effects of this transition.

"All the way up and down the coast, north and south. If it starts increasing delays into that one airport, it can back up, and it will cause delays continually throughout the system," stated former air traffic controller Colin Scoggins.

The relocation of Newark air traffic controllers to a new location aimed to improve staffing and training, with former FAA acting administrator Billy Nolen stating: "The FAA just has better capabilities in Philadelphia to get those controllers trained and up to speed.”

Though delays have significantly slowed, Newark is still not quite up to speed. Only 60% of the New York Area ATC positions are filled, turning even a few absences into a significant disruption.

This follows the nationwide trend of air traffic controller shortages. The FAA reports an approximately 3,000 personnel deficiency in the role, though it has assured that it is actively working to fill the gaps.

FMI: www.newarkairport.com