On Friday, MSNBC correspondent Tom Costello reported that an air traffic controller at Newark Liberty International Airport raised serious safety concerns, citing severe staff shortages that jeopardize traveler safety.

The controller, speaking unsolicited, told Costello, “It is not safe. The current situation poses risks to the flying public,” and advised avoiding Newark entirely.

Newark, a major hub near New York City, has faced persistent flight delays, which the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) attributes to a shortage of air traffic controllers.

The FAA has not yet responded to inquiries regarding these claims.

United Airlines, a primary operator at Newark, announced it will cancel 35 daily flights starting this weekend to mitigate the crisis. CEO Scott Kirby noted that over 20% of the airport’s air traffic controllers have recently left their posts.

Kirby emphasized that the facility has been understaffed for years, and the FAA has indicated that Newark’s current staffing levels cannot support the volume of scheduled flights in the coming months.

Addressing the issue in a Thursday press conference, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy urged more Americans to pursue careers as air traffic controllers.

To attract candidates, Duffy introduced new incentives, including a $5,000 bonus for those who complete training at the FAA Academy. He warned, “We’re seeing strain in the system.

Our responsibility is to anticipate and resolve these issues before they lead to a serious incident.”

Recruiting and retaining air traffic controllers, a demanding role requiring intense focus and long hours, has historically been challenging.

The situation has worsened in recent months amid administrative changes under the Trump administration, exacerbating the staffing crisis and prompting urgent calls for action to ensure the safety and efficiency of air travel at Newark and beyond.