Home » AIRLINE NEWS » Newark Airport Joins Ronald Reagan Washington, Chicago O’Hare, Dallas Fort Worth in Facing Massive Issues Due to US Federal Aviation Administration Shutdown, Grounds Planes Amid Struggles and Staffing Shortages, New Update is Here
Published on
October 30, 2025
By: Tuhin Sarkar
Newark Airport has now joined other major U.S. airports like Ronald Reagan Washington, Chicago O’Hare, and Dallas Fort Worth in facing massive issues due to the ongoing shutdown of the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and here is a new update. These airports have experienced severe disruptions, with Newark Liberty International Airport grounding planes to cope with the staffing shortages caused by the FAA’s struggles.
The US Government federal shutdown has led to a critical shortage of air traffic controllers, putting pressure on airports nationwide. Newark, along with other major hubs, is seeing delays as planes are held on the ground to ensure air safety amid these staffing challenges.
The FAA shutdown is creating a ripple effect across the country, making it difficult for airlines to maintain flight schedules. Staff shortages are leading to more than 7,000 flight delays in just a few days, disrupting travel plans for thousands of passengers. As air traffic controllers, many of whom have been working without pay, continue to call out sick, airports like Newark are struggling to meet demand. The FAA’s inability to provide the necessary staffing is directly impacting air travel across the U.S., making this an issue that passengers, airlines, and airports must navigate together.
As the situation continues, travelers flying through Newark, Chicago O’Hare, Dallas Fort Worth, and other airports should brace for more delays and uncertainty. Stay informed on the latest updates as the shutdown causes major disruptions in air travel.
Newark Airport Grounds Planes as FAA Faces Staffing Shortages
Newark Liberty International Airport has grounded planes due to a staffing shortage caused by the ongoing US government shutdown. The delay started at 3:30 p.m. ET on Wednesday and will last until 11 p.m. Passengers are being advised to expect delays of up to 40 minutes. This is just one of many disruptions faced by the aviation industry as the government shutdown has led to air traffic controller shortages. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is struggling to maintain staffing levels, making it difficult to ensure the safety and efficiency of air traffic control services.
Government Shutdown’s Impact on Air Traffic Controllers
The government shutdown has become a major burden for the aviation industry. With air traffic controllers working without pay, many have begun calling out sick, further exacerbating staffing issues. This has led to increased delays across U.S. airports. In recent days, more than 7,000 flights have been delayed within, into, or out of the U.S. on Monday alone, with over 4,000 delays on Tuesday. As a result, airports across the country are struggling to maintain their usual flight schedules. The shutdown is placing significant stress on both airline staff and passengers, leaving many stranded or inconvenienced.
The Ripple Effect: Over 7,000 Flights Delayed Due to FAA Shortages
The government shutdown is causing massive disruptions in air travel, with over 7,000 flight delays across the U.S. earlier this week. According to FlightAware, this has been a growing issue since the shutdown began, with more than 4,000 delays on Tuesday and nearly 3,000 on Wednesday alone. This is a direct result of the shortage of air traffic controllers, which has severely impacted the FAA’s ability to manage flight operations efficiently. Passengers are feeling the strain, with long waits and uncertainty at airports nationwide. The situation is becoming a major concern for frequent flyers and the aviation industry alike.
FAA’s Struggle with Staffing Shortages Puts Safety at Risk
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is facing a critical situation as the government shutdown stretches on. With air traffic controllers working without pay, many have been calling out sick, leading to widespread staffing shortages. These shortages are not only causing significant flight delays but are also raising safety concerns. Air traffic controllers are essential to the safe operation of the aviation system, and the lack of staff puts both passengers and crew at risk. While the FAA is doing its best to manage the situation, the ongoing staffing issues are a clear sign of the strain caused by the government shutdown.
How Long Will the FAA Staffing Crisis Last?
The FAA staffing crisis is unlikely to be resolved quickly. As long as the government shutdown continues, more air traffic controllers will likely call out sick, further worsening the situation. The delay at Newark Liberty International Airport is just one example of the widespread disruption occurring at airports across the country. The FAA is urging the government to resolve the shutdown and end the staffing crisis before it leads to even more severe disruptions. With thousands of flights being delayed and safety concerns mounting, there is an urgent need for a resolution to this ongoing issue.
Impact on Passengers: What to Expect During the Shutdown
Passengers flying through Newark Liberty International Airport and other affected airports should be prepared for significant delays. The FAA’s staffing shortage is causing ripple effects throughout the aviation system, and the situation is expected to continue for the foreseeable future. Travelers should allow for extra time at the airport and stay in close contact with their airlines for updates on flight status. In addition, the FAA has advised passengers to check for any changes to their flight times before heading to the airport. As the shutdown drags on, more disruptions are likely, making it crucial for passengers to stay informed.
FAA Staffing Crisis and Ongoing Travel Disruptions
The ongoing government shutdown is causing significant disruptions in the aviation industry, with staffing shortages at the FAA leading to flight delays and safety concerns. Newark Liberty International Airport is just one example of the impact this crisis is having on air travel. With over 7,000 flight delays already this week, the situation is becoming increasingly difficult for both passengers and airlines. The FAA is struggling to manage air traffic control operations, and the longer the shutdown continues, the more severe the disruptions are likely to become. Travelers are urged to be patient and stay informed as this issue unfolds.
