The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced a final order regarding flight arrival rates at Newark Liberty International Airport, confirming a limited rate of arrivals and departures through December 31, 2025. This decision follows discussions with airlines and the conclusion of a public comment period.
The reduced rates aim to maintain safety while reducing excessive flight delays caused by staffing and equipment challenges. The early completion of runway construction at the airport is expected to further enhance operational efficiency.
During weekends from September 1 through December 31, 2025, arrivals and departures will be capped at 28 each per hour due to ongoing airport construction. At other times, these numbers should not exceed 34 each per hour until October 25, 2025.
The FAA's efforts have already shown positive results over the Memorial Day holiday with smoother travel operations in and out of Newark. "Working with airlines and the airport," noted an FAA representative, "the limited arrival rate already paid dividends."
The U.S. Department of Transportation and the FAA will continue collaborating with stakeholders to ensure Newark remains a safe and efficient gateway for passengers and air carriers.
To improve operations at Newark, the FAA is implementing several measures:
- Adding three new high-bandwidth telecommunications connections between New York-based hubs and Philadelphia TRACON for enhanced speed, reliability, and redundancy.
- Replacing copper telecommunications connections with updated fiberoptic technology offering greater bandwidth.
- Deploying a temporary backup system to Philadelphia TRACON during the transition to fiberoptic networks.
- Establishing a STARS hub at Philadelphia TRACON for independence from New York STARS hub feeds.
- Increasing controller staffing levels at Philadelphia TRACON Area C.
For updates on operations at Newark or other airports, visit www.fly.faa.gov.
