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In a revealing piece published by the New York Post, retired air traffic controller Harvey Scolnick lays bare the challenges currently facing Newark Liberty International Airport, citing critical issues such as inadequate staffing and outdated infrastructure. Scolnick notes that "minimum staffing affects everything," emphasizing that the shortage of qualified controllers is a major concern, alongside the aged radar systems that are actually managed from Philadelphia.
Reflecting on his extensive 38-year career, Scolnick provides a vivid account of his experiences, including a dramatic incident at Kennedy Airport where he lost all systems during a busy evening shift. This anecdote underscores the fragility of air traffic infrastructure and the compounded difficulties Newark faces due to its proximity to other major airports like LaGuardia and JFK, as well as numerous smaller airfields.
The article paints air traffic control as a "big chess game," requiring precise coordination amid challenging weather conditions and the complex task of managing a high volume of air traffic. The stress and responsibility borne by controllers are likened to an "artistic" endeavor, demanding vigilance and rapid decision-making under pressure.
Scolnick underscores the need for updated systems and more trained personnel to enhance the safety and efficiency of operations at Newark. For further details, read the full article here: [NY Post Article](Source).
Veteran Air Traffic Controller Highlights Challenges at Newark Airport
In a revealing piece published by the New York Post, retired air traffic controller Harvey Scolnick lays bare the challenges currently facing Newark Liberty International Airport, citing critical issues such as inadequate staffing and outdated infrastructure. Scolnick notes that "minimum staffing affects everything," emphasizing that the shortage of qualified controllers is a major concern, alongside the aged radar systems that are actually managed from Philadelphia.
Reflecting on his extensive 38-year career, Scolnick provides a vivid account of his experiences, including a dramatic incident at Kennedy Airport where he lost all systems during a busy evening shift. This anecdote underscores the fragility of air traffic infrastructure and the compounded difficulties Newark faces due to its proximity to other major airports like LaGuardia and JFK, as well as numerous smaller airfields.
The article paints air traffic control as a "big chess game," requiring precise coordination amid challenging weather conditions and the complex task of managing a high volume of air traffic. The stress and responsibility borne by controllers are likened to an "artistic" endeavor, demanding vigilance and rapid decision-making under pressure.
Scolnick underscores the need for updated systems and more trained personnel to enhance the safety and efficiency of operations at Newark. For further details, read the full article here: [NY Post Article](Source).