Recent outages affecting radar and radio communications at one of the nation's busiest airports, Newark International Airport, have raised concerns among pilots, air traffic controllers, and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). However, experts assert that redundant safety systems in place prevented any significant risk of collision during these technology failures.
Jeff Guzzetti, a former accident investigator for the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board, emphasized that while the risk of a collision may have increased during these outages, it was not significantly heightened due to the robustness of the aviation safety system. He noted that accidents like the tragic January collision between a passenger jet and an Army helicopter typically stem from various compounding factors.
In the past month alone, the terminal control team in Philadelphia experienced simultaneous failures of its radar and communication systems. Consequently, air traffic controllers were unable to see or communicate with incoming and outgoing flights at Newark for periods of up to 90 seconds on April 28 and May 9. The primary radar line from the New York FAA facility failed, and the backup line did not activate immediately. Aging copper wires and outdated FAA computers contributed to this issue, as the systems struggled to manage current data processing demands.
Following the initial outages, which severely impacted operations, the already understaffed control center in Philadelphia lost between five to seven controllers to trauma leave. This shortfall rendered the Newark terminal control team unable to maintain the typical rhythm of handoffs between flights and the airport's control tower. Consequently, the FAA imposed safety restrictions, capping arrivals and departures at 28 per hour—well below the usual rate of 38 to 39 flights.
The FAA has several backup systems intended to mitigate risks in the event of communication failures. Controllers can utilize text messaging via data link systems, high-powered portable radios, or emergency radio frequencies when main communications are unavailable. Additionally, they are equipped with high-powered light guns that can signal pilots when verbal communication fails.
The air traffic control system benefits from a network of overlapping radar sites, allowing controllers from nearby facilities to step in if necessary. For example, during the outages in Philadelphia, voice communications were restored before radar systems, enabling a seamless transition for controllers to continue directing planes without needing to resort to alternative measures. A May 9 recording captured a controller relaying the operational difficulties to a FedEx pilot, who acknowledged the situation and wished the controllers well.
Acting FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau has sought to reassure the public regarding the integrity of safety measures, despite the vulnerabilities exposed by these outages. He confirmed that even with equipment issues, the FAA prioritizes safety by adjusting the flow of air traffic and implementing limits to prevent congestion.
Pilots, too, are extensively trained to handle communication failures. Capt. Miles Morgan, who oversees training for 17,000 United Airlines pilots, shared that while losing communication is rare, pilots are well-prepared. He recounted a personal experience where he lost communication, but was able to navigate the situation through emergency protocols without issue. Modern aircraft are equipped with collision avoidance systems that alert pilots to the presence and trajectory of other aircraft, enhancing safety margins.
When encountering communication outages, Allied Pilots Association spokesman Capt. Dennis Tajer explained that pilots adhere to established protocols. They continue along their last-directed path and communicate their position to other aircraft in the area, similar to operations at non-towered airports. Tajer emphasized that although communication failures pose serious challenges, pilots are well-prepared through training and equipped with advanced technology to ensure safety during such scenarios.
