Early Friday morning, Newark Liberty International Airport experienced a significant radar outage that raised safety concerns. The blackout, lasting about 90 seconds just before 4 a.m. EDT, affected a small number of sectors and was linked to the Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON) network in Philadelphia. According to the FAA, the issue stemmed from a telecommunications outage impacting radar displays and communications at Philadelphia TRACON Area C, which is crucial for guiding aircraft in and out of Newark airspace.
This incident follows recent reports highlighting challenges in air traffic control, particularly at Newark, where controllers have struggled with maintaining radio contact with pilots during previous months. On Thursday, federal officials had presented their plan to address the shortcomings in the nation’s air traffic systems, using Newark as a prime example of technological deficiencies that affect air travel. President Donald Trump commented on the situation, noting the disparity between modern aircraft technology and outdated ground systems, which can lead to critical communication lapses. He referenced a recent incident where controllers lost contact with planes for 30 seconds, signaling the need for urgent upgrades.
The radar blackout has heightened existing concerns about air traffic safety at one of the nation’s busiest airports, drawing attention to the pressing need for improvements in the air traffic control infrastructure. The FAA’s acknowledgment of the issue underscores the significance of addressing technological gaps to ensure safer operations for travelers and crew alike.
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