Overview

• Philadelphia TRACON Area C experienced a two-second radio frequency outage on May 19, with all aircraft safely separated during the incident.
• The FAA has launched an investigation into the latest communication failure, which follows previous outages in late April and early May.
• Staffing shortages led the FAA to impose a ground delay program at Newark Airport from 2:07 p.m. to 11:59 p.m. on May 19.
• Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has attributed persistent outages and delays to outdated air traffic control technology, announcing plans to unveil a modernization initiative next week.
• The FAA remains approximately 3,000 controllers short of its staffing target, with union representatives calling for urgent infrastructure and workforce investments.