Software update keeps Newark airport radar online
A recent software update successfully prevented a third radar outage in just two weeks at Newark airport in New Jersey. This outage occurred when a telecommunications line failed over the weekend, causing delays and cancellations for hundreds of flights. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy praised the Federal Aviation Administration for installing the update, which allowed the backup system to function properly when the primary line failed.
During a news conference, Duffy expressed his frustration with the recent issues at Newark airport, stating that the Biden administration could have taken action to prevent these problems. He highlighted previous hardware issues in October and November that should have raised concerns. The radar and communications systems went offline briefly in previous incidents, leaving air traffic controllers unable to communicate with planes.
Following the latest outage, the FAA restricted traffic into Newark Liberty International Airport due to staffing shortages caused by trauma leave taken by several air traffic controllers. These restrictions, combined with ongoing runway construction, led to widespread delays and cancellations. The FAA plans to meet with airlines to discuss extending these limits into the summer.
Despite the successful functioning of the radar system during the most recent incident, controllers stopped all traffic at Newark airport for 45 minutes as a precaution. Duffy announced plans to investigate the decision to move Newark air traffic controllers to Philadelphia last year, questioning why more precautions were not taken to prevent issues.
Duffy criticized the Biden administration for failing to address underlying infrastructure problems and suggested that a new radar system should have been set up in Philadelphia instead of piping signals from New York. He and former President Donald Trump have advocated for an overhaul of the nation’s air traffic control system to prevent future incidents like those at Newark airport.
An advisor to former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg defended the Biden administration’s efforts to address air traffic controller hiring and infrastructure problems, suggesting that Duffy should focus on solving issues rather than assigning blame.
Duffy outlined a comprehensive plan to replace the outdated air traffic control system, including installing new data connections and replacing radars. The FAA has begun testing new fiber optic lines at Newark and New York airports to prevent future outages.
Overall, the recent incidents at Newark airport highlight the importance of addressing infrastructure issues and implementing proactive measures to ensure the safety and efficiency of air travel.
