NEWARK, N.J. — Air travel across the United States was thrown into chaos Friday after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an unusual nationwide ground stop following a communications failure affecting air traffic control facilities.
Newark Liberty International Airport is one of the nation’s busiest aviation hubs and a major gateway for New Jersey travelers, is among the airports potentially impacted by the unprecedented nationwide disruption.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced the emergency measure on X.
“The FAA issued a nationwide ground stop for all U.S. airports following a communication issue impacting all Air Route Traffic Control Centers,” Duffy posted. “FAA technicians are investigating the issue. We will provide immediate updates as we have them.”
The disruption raises immediate concerns about delays and cancellations at Newark, where air traffic control staffing and technology problems have already generated significant headaches for travelers in recent years.
The precise cause of the communications failure, its expected duration, and the extent of the resulting flight disruptions remain unclear.
Travelers flying in or out of Newark Liberty Airport are encouraged to check directly with their airlines for updated flight information.
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