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21 sources·Politics

FAA Radar Outages Prompt Urgent Air Traffic Control Overhaul Amid Flight Delays

Recent radar outages at FAA facilities highlight the urgency of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy's multibillion-dollar plan to improve air traffic control systems.

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  1. Another Newark air traffic control outage confirmed, FAA lifts construction-related ground stop

    But what they are frustrated about and angry about and concerned about is because right now, the airport simply lacks the FAA tower staffing levels, modern technology and infrastructure that we need to make sure that this airspace, the busiest airspace in the world, runs efficiently, smoothly and safely, 24/7.

    Another Newark air traffic control outage confirmed, FAA lifts construction-related ground stop

    Fox BusinessFox Business·7d
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    Leans Right
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  2. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy Announces Plan To Address Air Traffic Control ‘Neglect’

    This plan comes amid increased concern over the air travel infrastructure after a passenger jet collided with a military helicopter near Reagan National Airport (DCA) in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 29, leaving no survivors.

    Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy Announces Plan To Address Air Traffic Control ‘Neglect’

    Daily CallerDaily Caller·8d
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    Right
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  3. Sean Duffy unveils FAA air traffic control system makeover

    Duffy disputed claims that the project would take 10-15 years, saying it could be completed in three to four years if Congress provides funding and agrees to key reforms.

    Sean Duffy unveils FAA air traffic control system makeover

    Washington ExaminerWashington Examiner·8d
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    Leans Right
    This outlet slightly leans right.
  1. PBS NewsHour
  2. CBS News
  3. Boston Herald
  4. Associated Press
  5. Fox Business
  6. Newsmax
  7. Daily Caller
  8. Washington Examiner
  9. NPR
  10. Epoch Times
  11. FOX News
  12. NBC News

Updated: May 9th, 2025, 12:29 PM ET

Summary

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Newark Liberty International Airport experienced its second radar outage in two weeks on May 9, causing significant flight delays. The FAA confirmed a telecommunications failure at the Philadelphia facility, impacting Newark operations and leading to hundreds of flight disruptions, which prompted air traffic controllers to take trauma leave amid an existing staffing shortage. This follows Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy's announcement of a multibillion-dollar overhaul of the U.S. air traffic control system to replace aging technology, aimed at enhancing safety following a recent midair collision that killed 67 people. Airline companies are adjusting schedules to cope with systemic issues.


Perspectives

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  • The FAA is taking steps to prevent future radar outages by installing new fiber optic data lines to improve communication between Philadelphia and New York.

  • Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy's announcement of a multi-billion-dollar plan aims to modernize the outdated air traffic control system that has led to significant flight disruptions, particularly at Newark.

  • Despite the ongoing issues, officials claim that Newark's airspace remains safe as traffic management protocols are in place to ensure the safety of incoming and outgoing flights.


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