A staffing shortage, runway construction and deferred maintenance to crucial air traffic technology have made Newark Airport a national laughingstock.

Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey has been dealing with nonstop delays and flight cancellations due to outdated equipment and air traffic control understaffing across the U.S.

The FAA is working on a short-term fix to the problems at Newark Airport that includes technical repairs and cutting flights to keep traffic manageable while dealing with a shortage of controllers.

But our air safety system is faltering on more than one front. In late April, the Newark airport — one of the busiest in the country — experienced a radio and radar outage for about 90 seconds. With pilots dependent on air traffic controllers to navigate the busy airspace near airports, seconds of silence could be fatal.

Staff shortages and equipment failures at Newark Liberty International Airport have raised safety concerns in recent weeks.

Denver ATC communication loss affects several pilots, sparking FAA investigation. The incident highlights ongoing air traffic control system issues and modernization needs.