Air traffic controllers at Newark Liberty International Airport briefly lost contact with planes on April 28th, causing hundreds of flight delays and cancellations. The incident, attributed to antiquated systems and staff shortages, led multiple controllers to take trauma leave, further exacerbating the situation. United Airlines cancelled dozens of flights due to the airport's inability to handle its schedule. The FAA acknowledges system issues and staff shortages, while initiating a plan to hire more controllers. FlightAware reports over 150 cancellations on Monday alone.

Prepared by Jonathan Pierce and reviewed by editorial team.