Tech Flashback: More Tech Troubles at US Airport Newark Near NYC
Unfortunate Incident: Significant Security Lapse Reported at US Airport Near New York - Newark
Hey there! Hop on board and let's talk about the happenings at the international US airport, Newark, west of New York City. In a déjà vu moment, air traffic controllers experienced a bumpy ride last Friday - just like two weeks earlier. Communication with pilots of departing and arriving aircraft was interrupted for 90 seconds - oops!
This glitch disrupted the radar screens and ground communication systems. According to reports, this mishap occurred at 3:55 AM (local time) and lasted the same duration as the previous incident on April 28 [1]. After the first incident, US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg announced a massive overhaul of the US air traffic control system by the end of 2028, promising to ditch some tech that can barely remember Elvis [1].
Newark Liberty International Airport, one of the three major hubs serving the New York metropolitan area, is notorious for being overcrowded [2]. With recent events raising concerns around aviation safety, the focus on security is more crucial than ever.
In early 2022, a catastrophic aircraft crash at the national airport of the US capital, Washington, took 67 lives [2]. A passenger plane got too close for comfort with a military helicopter, causing the tragic accident. The United States aviation sector is currently discussing safety measures — it's time to buckle up!
[1] Newark outage and modernization efforts: https://www.nytimes.com/2022/05/10/us/newark-airport-air-traffic-flights.html[2] Aviation safety discussions in the US: https://www.afa.org/news/article/us-aviation-safety-discussions-ongoing-following-deadly-crash-in-washington
Fun fact: Did you know that the current air traffic control system in the US consists of 4,600 sites with technology in part from the 1960s? The federal government is revamping it as we speak, because, seriously, who wants to hang out with technology that old? [3]
[3] Comprehensive modernization plan: https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/ statements/2025/05/08/fact-sheet-the-presidents-new-plan-to-strengthen-americas-air-traffic-control-system/
- The tech trouble at the US airport in Newark, near New York City, has again resurfaced, causing a 90-second outage in air traffic communication systems.
- Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg has plans to update the US air traffic control system, promising to phase out old technology by the end of 2028.
- Last year, a catastrophic plane crash at the US capital's national airport took 67 lives, raising concerns about aviation safety that are now critical at Newark Liberty International Airport.
- Recent events at Newark have sparked discussions in the US about safety measures in the aviation sector. Amidst the conversations, there's a need for increased vigilance, particularly regarding security breaches.
