Newark Airport is currently grappling with significant operational disruptions, with air traffic control outages prompting the FAA to cut flight volumes by 30% amid ongoing construction and controller shortages. Travelers have reported frustration due to more than 300 delays over holiday weekends, and airlines like United and American are witnessing a decline in demand as many consider avoiding the congested airport. A former FAA official highlights a vintage air traffic system as a contributing factor to recent near misses and outage problems. As Newark prepares for the summer travel season, the aviation community is left questioning whether the airport can stabilize its operations in the face of these systemic challenges.