Brink Flight: Newark's ATC Nightmare

Last week's equipment failure highlights the deteriorating state of the US National Airspace System (NAS). The near miss between a Southwest Airlines flight and a United Airlines flight at LaGuardia Airport in New York further underscores the system's vulnerability. The two aircraft came within 75 feet of each other, narrowly avoiding a collision thanks to quick action by the pilots and an air traffic controller. This incident follows numerous warnings and reports about the NAS's aging infrastructure, understaffing, and outdated technology. A 2023 FAA safety review panel warned of a “steady erosion” of safety margins, citing fatigue, staffing shortages, and automation issues. The report also pointed to the lack of modernization and investment in the NAS. The recent near miss at LaGuardia reflects these systemic problems. The FAA has acknowledged the need for upgrades and modernization efforts, including implementing the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen). However, progress has been slow and hampered by funding constraints and bureaucratic hurdles. The LaGuardia incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of neglecting the NAS and the urgent need for comprehensive and sustained investment in infrastructure and staffing. find the original article here: https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2025/05/09/twxc-m09.html