Flight cancellations in the Northeast have not only frustrated travelers but also the CEO of United Airlines, Scott Kirby. He criticized the Federal Aviation Agency (FAA) for ordering flight cancellations and delays at Newark Liberty International Airport due to challenging weather conditions. Kirby expressed his disappointment in an email to employees, stating that the FAA had historically been able to handle such weather situations without severe disruptions. The cancellations and delays affected over 150,000 United Airlines customers.
In response to Kirby’s criticisms, the FAA stated that they are open to collaboration in solving the problem. The FAA, which oversees air traffic in the US and has influence over flight schedules, has recently faced difficulties fulfilling its duties due to staff shortages.
Data from flight tracker FlightAware shows that more than 715 flights into and out of the US were cancelled, with over 270 of those being flights to or from Newark Liberty International Airport, United Airlines’ New York hub. Some travelers blamed United Airlines for the delays, stating that the airline lacked sufficient staff to assist stranded customers.
The shortage of air traffic controllers at the FAA’s New York facility was previously highlighted in a notice issued by the agency in March. The notice revealed that the facility had only reached 54% of its staffing goal for certified professional controllers, well below the national average. These controllers manage air traffic services for major airports in New York.
Kirby assured his employees that he would collaborate with the FAA and the Department of Transportation to prevent similar disruptions in summer travel. However, he emphasized that it is ultimately the responsibility of the FAA to address and resolve their staffing issues.
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