Newark, NJ – Travelers heading through Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) for the Labor Day weekend are facing significant disruptions as a major equipment failure has led to a ground stop and widespread flight delays, creating a travel nightmare at one of the nation’s busiest hubs.
An equipment issue within the Philadelphia TRACON (Terminal Radar Approach Control) area, which manages the airspace for Newark, was identified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as the source of the problem. This resulted in a temporary ground stop for all incoming flights on Thursday, August 28, 2025.
While the ground stop has since been lifted, the ripple effects continue to impact travelers. Arriving flights experienced average delays of 90 minutes, with some reports indicating delays of up to 158 minutes. The FAA has also been forced to reduce the airport’s capacity to 28 flights per hour, a significant decrease from the usual rate.
The timing of this disruption is particularly challenging, as it coincides with the start of the busy Labor Day holiday weekend, a period when millions of travelers are expected to fly. Passengers have taken to social media to express their frustration over the long waits and last-minute changes to their travel plans.
This is not the first time Newark Airport has faced operational challenges. The airport has experienced a series of issues in 2025, including staffing shortages and other technical faults, leading to a pattern of delays and cancellations. In response to ongoing congestion and operational hurdles, the FAA had previously implemented measures to manage the volume of flights at the airport.
Officials are advising passengers with upcoming flights to or from Newark to check directly with their airlines for the latest information on their flight status. Travelers are also being encouraged to allow for extra time at the airport due to the ongoing disruptions.
For the most up-to-date information, travelers can refer to the official websites of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.
