What’s Happening at Newark Airport? Here’s What You Need to Know
Introduction
If you’ve been flying in or out of Newark Liberty International Airport lately, you probably noticed things aren’t running as smoothly as usual. It’s been a rough ride for travelers from flight delays to emergency landings and nonstop construction. Let’s break it all down so you know exactly what’s going on.
What’s Causing All the Disruptions?
On April 28, 2025, Newark Airport had one of its most chaotic days yet. A combination of technical problems and ongoing construction projects threw the airport into complete disarray.
FAA System Failure: The Big Problem
What Went Wrong on April 28, 2025?
Around 1:30 PM, a major equipment failure hit the FAA’s Philadelphia control center — the one that helps guide planes around Newark. This forced a sudden “ground stop,” meaning no planes could take off or land for a while.
How It Affected Flights
Within just a few hours, over 200 flights were delayed and nearly 20 were canceled. Departure wait times stretched beyond two hours. For many travelers, it was a day full of sitting and waiting without clear answers.
How Airlines and Officials Responded
The Port Authority urged passengers to check their flight status before heading to the airport. Meanwhile, airlines tried to juggle their schedules to deal with the mess, but the situation stayed rough for several hours.
Emergency Landing by United Airlines
What Happened with United Flight 1321?
Adding to the chaos, a United Airlines Boeing 777 flying to Los Angeles had to turn back shortly after takeoff. The crew reported a possible mechanical issue and made the smart call to return to Newark.
Was Everyone Safe?
Thankfully, yes. The plane landed safely just after 1:30 PM, and nobody was hurt. United quickly arranged another aircraft to get the passengers on their way to LA.
Construction Projects at Newark Airport
Runway 4L-22R Work
What’s Being Done?
Since mid-April 2025, Newark has been working on a $121 million project to completely overhaul one of its major runways. They’re adding new pavement, energy-efficient lights, better drainage, and updated electrical systems.
How It’s Impacting Flights
All this necessary work means longer waits:
- About 1 in 5 incoming flights are delayed by nearly 40 minutes.
- Nearly half of outgoing flights are delayed by a similar amount. To help, planes are being directed to use other runways during peak hours.
Terminal A Construction
Construction outside Terminal A is also causing heavy traffic, especially around pickup zones 14 and 15. It’s a good idea to plan extra time if you’re using this terminal.
Major Projects Underway at Newark Airport
New AirTrain System
What’s Coming?
Newark’s old AirTrain is finally getting replaced. A new, modern $1.184 billion system is on the way, stretching 2.5 miles.
When Will It Be Ready?
Construction starts this year, but the new AirTrain won’t be ready for passengers until around 2030. In the meantime, the old train will keep running.
Terminal B Overhaul
The Future Vision
A $55 million design project is in motion to completely rebuild Terminal B. The goal? A bigger, more modern, and much more comfortable space for travelers.
Newark’s Long-Term Plans
Short-, Mid-, and Long-Term Goals
Newark’s overall Vision Plan looks ahead all the way to 2065. It aims to gradually turn the airport into a world-class, eco-friendly travel hub.
Green Building Goals
Eco-friendly construction, energy-saving systems, and sustainable designs are a big focus throughout all of Newark’s new projects.
Better Facilities and Services for Travelers
New United Cargo Facility
What’s New?
United Airlines just opened a huge 165,000-square-foot cargo space with:
- 40 loading docks
- Special temperature-controlled rooms
- More space for trucks
This upgrade boosts Newark’s role as a major center for shipping and cargo.
Sensory Room Expansion
Helping All Travelers
Newark now has two sensory rooms inside Terminal A, designed to help travelers who are neurodivergent. These calm spaces feature soft lights, aquatic themes, and quiet areas to relax.
What’s Coming Soon
Corbin Street Ramp Project
Starting in September 2025, the Corbin Street Ramp will close for a year. Drivers will have to detour through Marlin and Kellogg Streets instead.
Better Train Access
A new station access project will soon give people in Newark and Elizabeth easier ways to reach AirTrain and NJ Transit lines. Work begins in 2025.
How Travelers Can Manage the Chaos
Dealing with Delays
If you’re flying soon, leave extra time and stay flexible. Newark is a construction zone right now — patience is key!
Travel Tips
- Arrive Early: Especially for international flights.
- Keep Checking Flights: Apps and airline websites are your best friend.
- Bring Essentials: Snacks, chargers, and something to keep you busy.
- Use Public Transit: Parking can be a nightmare right now.
How This Affects the Region
Good for the Economy
All this building is creating jobs, boosting local businesses, and setting Newark up as a stronger, more important hub for the future.
New Opportunities Ahead
Once the work is done, Newark will be ready to handle more international flights and attract even more business to the area.
Smart Tech and Safety Upgrades
More Technology, More Convenience
Soon you’ll see smarter security, biometric boarding gates, and faster check-ins. Traveling through Newark should eventually feel much easier.
Keeping Safety a Priority
What’s Being Improved?
The airport is adding better surveillance systems and improving staff training to make sure safety stays a top priority.
Protecting the Environment
Going Green
Projects include solar panels, rainwater systems, and better energy use — all part of Newark’s promise to build a greener airport.
Conclusion
Newark Airport is going through a messy but important transformation. Yes, it’s frustrating now, but when all the upgrades are done, travelers will have a much better experience. Until then, if you’re flying through Newark, plan ahead, pack your patience, and know that change is coming for the better.
FAQs
Q1. Why were flights delayed at Newark on April 28, 2025?
A major FAA equipment failure caused widespread delays and flight cancellations.
Q2. Is Newark Airport still safe after the emergency landing?
Yes! Thanks to strong safety measures, United Flight 1321 landed without any injuries.
Q3. When will the runway construction finish?
The runway upgrades should wrap up by June 2025.
Q4. What’s happening with the AirTrain?
A brand-new AirTrain is being built and will be ready by around 2030.
Q5. How can I make traveling through Newark easier during construction?
Arrive early, check flight updates often, pack smart, and use public transport if you can.
