Regulations & Safety
Newark Airport Addresses Radar Failures and Staffing Challenges
FAA and Port Authority implement radar upgrades and workforce solutions to improve operations at Newark Liberty International Airport.
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), a critical hub in the U.S. aviation network, has faced mounting operational challenges in recent years. As one of the busiest airports serving the New York metropolitan area, Newark plays a vital role in connecting both domestic and international travelers. However, persistent issues such as radar system failures and workforce shortages have significantly impacted its operational reliability.
These disruptions have not only affected passenger satisfaction but have also raised broader questions about the resilience of U.S. airport infrastructure in the post-pandemic era. Recent updates from U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau have shed light on the federal response to Newark’s difficulties, signaling a coordinated effort to address systemic issues through modernization and workforce investments.
In this article, we explore the root causes of Newark’s operational problems, the measures being taken to resolve them, and what these developments mean for the future of air travel in the United States.
One of the most pressing issues at Newark has been the malfunctioning of radar systems critical to air traffic control. These systems, responsible for monitoring and guiding aircraft safely through the airspace, have experienced intermittent failures, contributing to significant delays and safety concerns. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has identified these technical issues as a priority for immediate repair and long-term modernization.
Radar infrastructure at many U.S. airports, including Newark, relies on legacy systems that are increasingly difficult to maintain. As air traffic volumes rebound to pre-pandemic levels, the strain on these systems becomes more pronounced, revealing vulnerabilities that can no longer be ignored. The FAA’s NextGen initiative, which aims to transition from radar-based to satellite-based navigation, is part of the broader solution, though implementation remains ongoing.
According to FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau, “Modernizing radar infrastructure is critical for the safety and efficiency of our airspace. We recognize the challenges faced at Newark and are prioritizing resources to address these.” The FAA has already begun deploying technical teams to assess and upgrade Newark’s radar systems as part of a phased improvement plan.
“Modernizing radar infrastructure is critical for the safety and efficiency of our airspace,” FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau Equally concerning is the shortage of skilled personnel at Newark, particularly air traffic controllers, ramp agents, and ground operations staff. These shortages have led to scheduling delays, longer turnaround times, and increased stress on existing personnel. The situation reflects a broader trend across the aviation industry, where workforce gaps have been exacerbated by pandemic-related retirements and recruitment challenges.
In 2023 and early 2024, Newark was consistently ranked among the top five U.S. airports for flight delays, according to data from the U.S. Department of Transportation. These delays are not solely due to technical issues but are compounded by insufficient staffing levels that hinder efficient airport operations. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which operates Newark, has acknowledged the need for more robust hiring and retention strategies. To address this, the FAA and Department of Transportation have launched recruitment drives targeting new air traffic controllers and support staff. Additionally, incentive programs and training enhancements are being rolled out to improve retention and skill development. Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized the urgency of these efforts, stating, “We are working closely with the FAA and airport authorities to ensure that the necessary technical upgrades and staffing reinforcements are in place to restore reliable operations.”
In response to the immediate crisis, several temporary measures have been implemented. These include flight scheduling adjustments, increased coordination with airlines, and the deployment of mobile radar units to support air traffic control functions during peak hours. While these steps have helped mitigate some of the disruptions, they are not sustainable long-term solutions.
Looking ahead, the FAA is focusing on systemic improvements through its NextGen program, which includes transitioning to satellite-based navigation and investing in digital communication tools for air traffic management. These technologies promise to enhance both capacity and safety, but their full deployment will require coordinated funding and policy support at the federal level.
Moreover, the Port Authority is exploring infrastructure upgrades at Newark, including terminal expansions and improved ground transportation links. These investments aim to enhance the overall passenger experience and support the airport’s long-term growth strategy.
Newark’s challenges are not isolated. Airports across the United States and globally are grappling with similar issues, from outdated infrastructure to workforce shortages. The aviation industry is undergoing a complex recovery, where rising passenger demand is colliding with operational constraints. This dynamic underscores the need for strategic investments and policy reforms to ensure long-term resilience.
In Europe, systems like SESAR (Single European Sky ATM Research) are being developed to modernize air traffic management, paralleling the FAA’s NextGen efforts. These initiatives aim to improve flight efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and enhance safety through technological innovation. The U.S. approach, while similar in intent, faces unique challenges tied to the scale and diversity of its airspace system.
Workforce development is another shared concern. Globally, the aviation sector is struggling to attract and retain skilled professionals. Competitive labor markets, evolving job requirements, and demographic shifts are contributing to a talent gap that threatens operational stability. Addressing this will require not just recruitment, but also education, training, and long-term career development strategies.
The U.S. government has committed billions of dollars to modernize airport infrastructure and air traffic systems. Under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and FAA programs, funding has been allocated to support projects like radar upgrades, terminal renovations, and workforce training. Newark is among the airports expected to benefit from these investments. These funds are crucial for implementing advanced technologies and maintaining safety standards in an increasingly complex aviation environment. However, the effectiveness of these investments will depend on efficient execution, inter-agency collaboration, and continuous oversight. Transparency in how funds are utilized will be key to maintaining public trust and achieving measurable outcomes.
Industry analysts suggest that while funding is a necessary condition for improvement, it is not sufficient on its own. Policy frameworks must also evolve to support innovation, streamline regulatory processes, and encourage public-private partnerships that can accelerate modernization efforts.
With federal and local stakeholders now aligned on the urgency of the situation, Newark Liberty International Airport is poised for a period of transformation. The combined efforts of the FAA, DOT, and the Port Authority aim to restore operational reliability and rebuild passenger confidence. However, the path forward will require sustained commitment and adaptability in the face of evolving challenges.
In the short term, travelers can expect incremental improvements as new staff are onboarded and technical systems are upgraded. In the long term, Newark’s trajectory will depend on the successful integration of modern technologies, efficient management practices, and a resilient workforce strategy.
The Newark case serves as a microcosm of broader aviation industry trends, highlighting both the vulnerabilities and the opportunities that exist in rebuilding smarter, safer, and more efficient air travel systems.
Newark Liberty International Airport’s recent struggles with radar malfunctions and staffing shortages have brought to light critical vulnerabilities in the U.S. aviation infrastructure. Federal and local authorities are actively working to resolve these issues through targeted investments, technical upgrades, and workforce development initiatives. While progress is being made, the situation underscores the need for long-term strategic planning and sustained funding.
As Newark continues its journey toward operational recovery, it also offers valuable lessons for other airports facing similar challenges. The integration of modern technology, improved labor practices, and policy reform will be essential in shaping a more resilient and efficient national airspace system for the future.
What caused the recent delays at Newark Liberty International Airport? What actions are being taken to fix the radar issues? Is the federal government involved in resolving these problems?
Newark Liberty International Airport: Addressing Radar Failures and Staffing Shortages
Operational Challenges at Newark Liberty International Airport
Radar System Malfunctions
Workforce Shortages and Their Impact
Temporary Measures and Long-Term Strategies
Broader Implications and Industry Context
National and Global Trends
Federal Commitment and Funding
What’s Next for Newark?
Conclusion
FAQ
Delays were primarily caused by radar system malfunctions and a shortage of air traffic controllers and ground staff.
The FAA is repairing and upgrading Newark’s radar infrastructure as part of its NextGen modernization program.
Yes, the U.S. Department of Transportation and FAA are leading efforts to address the issues through funding, recruitment, and infrastructure upgrades.
Photo Credit: Skift
Regulations & Safety
Starsky Aviation Fokker 50 Runway Excursion at Mogadishu Airport
A Starsky Aviation Fokker 50 skidded off the runway during emergency landing at Mogadishu’s Aden Adde Airport; all 55 aboard safe with minor injuries.
This article summarizes reporting by ABC News / Associated Press and Omar Faruk.
On Tuesday, February 10, 2026, a passenger aircraft operated by Starsky Aviation suffered a significant runway excursion during an emergency landing at Aden Adde International Airport (MGQ) in Mogadishu, Somalia. According to reporting by the Associated Press, the aircraft skidded off the runway and came to a rest on the sandy shoreline of the Indian Ocean.
Despite the severity of the crash landing, which resulted in the detachment of the aircraft’s right wing, authorities have confirmed that there were no fatalities among the passengers and crew.
The flight, identified as a domestic service operated by a Fokker 50 turboprop, departed Mogadishu in the early afternoon. Conflicting reports from local sources suggest the flight was bound for either Guriel or Galkayo. Approximately 15 minutes after departure, the flight crew declared an emergency due to a suspected technical malfunction, specifically citing engine failure, and requested an immediate return to Aden Adde International Airport.
According to verified details released by the Somali Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA), the pilots attempted to land on Runway 05/23. However, upon touchdown, the aircraft failed to stop within the designated tarmac area.
SCAA Director General Ahmed Moalim Hassan provided a statement regarding the sequence of events:
“The pilot tried to land the aircraft back in Mogadishu, but after touchdown, he was unable to maintain control.”
, Ahmed Moalim Hassan, SCAA Director General (via AP/Local Media)
The aircraft subsequently breached the airport’s perimeter fence and slid onto the adjacent beach. Emergency services, including airport fire crews, responded immediately to evacuate the aircraft. While the Associated Press initially reported “up to 50” people on board, updated reports indicate a total manifest of 55 people, comprised of 50 passengers and 5 crew members. All were evacuated safely, with only minor injuries reported. The aircraft involved is a Fokker 50, a turboprop commonly used for regional flights in East Africa. The operator, Starsky Aviation (formerly known as Starsom Air), is a Mogadishu-based carrier founded in 2013. The airline utilizes a fleet primarily consisting of Fokker 50 and Embraer aircraft for domestic passenger and cargo logistics.
Images circulating from the scene depict the aircraft resting on the sand with substantial structural damage, including a severed right wing. Airport officials noted that preventing a post-impact fire was a primary concern given the fuel load and the crash site’s proximity to the water.
Aden Adde International Airport is geographically unique, with its primary runway running parallel to the Indian Ocean coastline. This layout leaves little margin for error during runway excursions. As noted in historical data regarding the airport, this is not an isolated event.
While the survival of all 55 occupants is a testament to the durability of the airframe and the quick response of rescue teams, this incident reinforces concerns regarding operations at Aden Adde International Airport. The recurrence of runway excursions ending on the beach suggests that environmental factors, such as coastal wind shear, combined with aging turboprop fleets, present persistent risks.
The Fokker 50 has long been a workhorse in Somali aviation, but the frequency of hull-loss incidents involving this type in the region may prompt increased regulatory scrutiny regarding maintenance standards and pilot training for emergency return scenarios.
Starsky Aviation Fokker 50 Veers Off Runway in Mogadishu; All 55 Aboard Safe
Incident Overview and Timeline
Aircraft and Airline Background
Context: A History of Shoreline Excursions
AirPro News Analysis
Sources
Photo Credit: X
Regulations & Safety
NJASAP Supports H.R. 7148 Enhancing FAA Funding and Aviation Safety
NJASAP applauds H.R. 7148 for securing FAA funding, staffing increases, and infrastructure upgrades to strengthen U.S. aviation safety and stability.
This article is based on an official press release from the NetJets Association of Shared Aircraft Pilots (NJASAP).
The NetJets Association of Shared Aircraft Pilots (NJASAP), the independent labor union representing more than 3,700 pilots who fly for NetJets Aviation, Inc., has issued a formal statement applauding the enactment of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026 (H.R. 7148). Signed into law by the President on February 3, 2026, the legislation secures full-year funding for the federal government, averting the operational risks associated with government shutdowns.
According to the union’s statement, the passage of H.R. 7148 represents a critical victory for the stability of the National Airspace System (NAS). NJASAP leadership highlighted that the bill not only ensures continuous operation of essential agencies but also directs significant resources toward modernizing avionics infrastructure and addressing long-standing staffing shortages at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
A primary focus of the NJASAP’s praise centers on the specific financial allocations designed to bolster the FAA’s operational capacity. The union noted that the legislation provides $13.71 billion for FAA operations, a figure intended to stabilize the agency’s day-to-day functions.
In its release, NJASAP emphasized the importance of the bill’s provisions for workforce expansion. The legislation funds the hiring of approximately 2,500 new air traffic controllers. This surge in staffing is aimed at mitigating the persistent shortages that have strained the air traffic control system, contributed to delays, and reduced safety margins across the network.
Additionally, the bill allocates resources for 54 additional aviation safety inspectors. NJASAP views these hires as essential for maintaining rigorous oversight within the industry.
Beyond operational staffing, the union highlighted the bill’s investment in physical and technological infrastructure. The Consolidated Appropriations Act allocates $4 billion to the Airport Improvement Program (AIP). According to the press release, these funds are designated for replacing aging radar systems and telecommunications infrastructure, as well as upgrading navigation and surveillance systems.
The union also drew attention to a $100 million allocation for the FAA Office of Aerospace Medicine. This funding is targeted at modernizing technology systems to reduce the backlog in pilot medical certifications, a bureaucratic bottleneck that has historically kept qualified pilots grounded for extended periods. On the policy front, NJASAP celebrated the inclusion of language explicitly prohibiting the privatization of the U.S. air traffic control system. The union has long opposed privatization efforts, arguing that the NAS must remain a public asset accountable to safety standards rather than profit motives.
Capt. Pedro Leroux, President of NJASAP, commented on the significance of the legislation in the official release:
“Congress has taken a decisive step to protect the safety and continuity of the National Airspace System by passing a full-year appropriation that prioritizes modernization, staffing and FAA readiness. As professional aviators who rely on these systems every day, we commend lawmakers for recognizing that airspace safety and stability are not optional, but are fundamental to the U.S. aviation industry.”
While the funding measures in H.R. 7148 benefit the entire aviation sector, they hold specific relevance for NetJets pilots. Unlike commercial airline pilots who primarily operate between major hubs with robust support infrastructure, fractional pilots frequently fly into a vast network of smaller, regional airports. The $4 billion investment in the Airport Improvement Program is therefore critical for maintaining safety standards at the diverse range of airfields utilized by business aviation.
Furthermore, the stability provided by a full-year appropriations bill is vital for long-term planning. Stop-gap funding measures often freeze training pipelines; by securing funding through the fiscal year, the FAA can proceed with the training of the 2,500 new controllers without interruption, a key factor in reducing system-wide congestion.
NJASAP Commends Congress on H.R. 7148 Passage, Citing Safety and Stability Wins
Strengthening FAA Operations and Staffing
Addressing the Controller Shortage
Infrastructure and Policy Protections
Aeromedical Reform and Privatization
AirPro News Analysis
Sources
Photo Credit: The NetJets Association of Shared Aircraft Pilots
Regulations & Safety
Garmin GHA 15 Height Advisor Receives FAA Approval for Certified Aircraft
Garmin’s GHA 15 Height Advisor, a radar-based altitude device, gains FAA approval for over 500 certified aircraft models, enhancing general aviation safety.
This article is based on an official press release from Garmin.
Garmin has announced that its GHA 15 Height Advisor, a radar-based altitude monitoring device, has received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval. Previously available only for the experimental market, this certification allows the installation of the device in over 500 models of Class I and Class II certified aircraft.
The approval marks a significant shift in the accessibility of radar altimetry for general aviation pilots. According to the company, the GHA 15 is available immediately at a price of $2,695. This pricing strategy positions the device as a cost-effective alternative to traditional radar altimeters, which have historically been priced significantly higher and reserved for business jets or commercial airliners.
The GHA 15 is designed to provide pilots with precise Height Above Ground Level (AGL) readings during the critical final phases of flight. While standard barometric altimeters rely on air pressure and can be subject to calibration errors or terrain variations, the GHA 15 uses radio frequency technology to measure the actual distance between the aircraft and the ground.
Garmin states that the device is capable of providing AGL data from 500 feet down to the surface. The system integrates with the Garmin GI 275 electronic flight instrument to display altitude data and generate audible callouts directly to the pilot’s headset. These callouts, such as “50 feet,” “20 feet,” and “10 feet”, are user-configurable and intended to assist pilots in judging flare height and landing timing.
“The GHA 15 provides a cost-effective solution that helps reduce pilot workload and provides confidence during the approach and landing phases of flight.”
, Garmin Press Release
The unit is a compact, all-in-one module that mounts to the underside of the aircraft fuselage. Weighing less than one pound (approximately 0.45 kg), the device is roughly the size of a deck of cards, minimizing the structural impact of installation. According to the technical details released by Garmin, the GHA 15 offers the following accuracy levels:
The FAA STC covers a broad range of single-engine and twin-engine piston aircraft (Class I and Class II). This includes popular general aviation airframes such as the Cessna 172, Piper PA-28, Beechcraft Bonanza, and Mooney M20 series. To function, the GHA 15 must be interfaced with a Garmin GI 275 electronic flight instrument. For experimental aircraft, the device remains compatible with the G3X Touch flight display.
The certification of the GHA 15 represents a notable development in the “democratization” of avionics safety features. Historically, radar altimeters (such as the Garmin GRA 55) have cost upwards of $7,000, placing them out of reach for the average private pilot. By offering a certified “Height Advisor” for under $3,000, Garmin is effectively bridging the gap between recreational flying and professional-grade situational awareness. We believe this technology will be particularly valuable in three specific scenarios:
It is important to note the distinction Garmin makes by labeling this product a “Height Advisor” rather than a TSO-certified radar altimeter. While it provides similar functionality, it is intended for advisory purposes and does not replace the higher-end equipment required for complex instrument approaches like CAT II or CAT III landings.
Sources: Garmin
Garmin GHA 15 Height Advisor Receives FAA Approval for Certified Aircraft
Bringing Radar Altimetry to General Aviation
Technical Specifications and Accuracy
Installation and Compatibility
AirPro News Analysis: The Democratization of Safety Tech
Sources
Photo Credit: Garmin
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