A United Airlines flight is seen at New York’s LaGuardia International Airport.
Adam Jeffery | CNBC
The Federal Aviation Administration on Wednesday announced measures to try to avoid a repeat of disruptions at airports serving New York City and Washington, D.C., this summer as they grapple with a shortage of air traffic controllers at a key facility in the area.
The agency said it would reduce flight requirements for airlines’ take-off and landing rights to avoid congestion. Airlines have until April 30 to submit requests to give up take-off and landing spaces.
The waiver will run from May 15 through September 11. 15.
Airline executives have repeatedly complained about air traffic control deficiencies that have contributed to flight disruptions as air travel has jumped from pandemic lows in the past few years. Last summer, airlines also reduced their schedules to avoid delays as they dealt with their own staffing issues and other pressures.
The FAA said it expects more delays in the New York City area this summer than last year, and expects a 45% increase in delays with operations growing 7%.
United Airlines It said it would seek a waiver of certain use of takeoff and landing assignments at the three largest airports in the New York area and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. In a letter to Acting FAA Administrator Billy Nolen on Wednesday, United said it will use planes with more seats to make up for the reduced number of flights and offer alternative flights to affected customers.
Delta Airlines He applauded the FAA’s measure.
“Delta reviews our network to ensure the best customer experience throughout the summer travel season, and we are committed to working with the FAA on measures to ensure the safety and efficiency of operations at New York/NJ airports,” the airline said in a statement. .
Later this month, the FAA will hold a summit with airlines about other ways they can mitigate turbulence in the region. It held a similar event last year in Florida where airline passengers faced delays caused by bad weather, high demand and congestion over issues such as space launches and military exercises.