FAA Proposes Hourly Flight Limits at Newark Airport
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will hold a meeting on May 14, 2025, to discuss limiting hourly aircraft movements at Newark Liberty International Airport in an effort to reduce delays and congestion. Airlines have been invited to participate as the FAA considers capping arrivals and departures to 28 each per hour—totaling 56 movements—during the remainder of a major runway construction project.
The proposed restrictions come as Newark continues to face operational challenges, including daily closures of Runway 4L/22R, ongoing construction expected to last through 2025, air traffic controller shortages, and aging infrastructure. The FAA noted in its May 9 notice that the airport “is unable to handle the current level of scheduled operations.”
Recent air traffic control system failures at Newark, including a 90-second blackout in April and a subsequent slowdown due to telecom issues, have further highlighted system vulnerabilities. Transportation Secretary Duffy and Acting FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau ordered the review.
United Airlines, Newark’s largest carrier, supports limiting operations. In a May 8 memo, CEO Scott Kirby proposed a cap of 48 movements per hour and a return to Level 3 slot control. He also called for full staffing at Newark’s air traffic control center and modernization of outdated equipment.
Newark currently sees nearly 500 daily departures, with 37 airlines serving 190 destinations. While the FAA’s proposed restrictions would initially apply to U.S. carriers, foreign airlines may be affected later through a separate IATA scheduling process if necessary.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com