Avoiding Newark Airport

Like much of the country, we’ve held our breath, cringed and worried as distressing and disturbing news has rolled out from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) about serious and ongoing delays and cancelations.

It’s been so bad that United Airlines decided to cut 35 daily flights at Newark due to concerns over the shortage of air traffic controllers, faulty technology, safety and delays.

The technology failures are especially frightening.

On April 28, it was widely reported, that for at least 90 seconds air traffic controllers lost all communication with airplanes heading for Newark Airport.

It turns out that wasn’t the first time. According to this NBC News story, controllers lost radio contact with pilots flying into EWR at least eight or nine times in recent months.

Airlines offering change options to avoid Newark

Some airlines are offering to waive change fees to help travelers deal with the Newark challenges.

In some cases, you have the option to change airports.

Here are some of the offers, as of Wednesday, May 7. If you’re planning to fly to, from or through EWR, be sure to check for updates.

American Airlines

Jet Blue

United Airlines

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