The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is enforcing flight slowdowns and ground stops today, July 27, 2026, at John F. Kennedy (JFK), LaGuardia (LGA), Newark Liberty International (EWR), and Philadelphia International (PHL) airports. The slowdowns result from severe weather and ongoing staffing shortages at the New York Air Route Traffic Control Center affecting air traffic management at these airports.
FlightAware data show cancellations ranging between 20% and 30% across the four affected airports. Ground delays currently average from 71 to 149 minutes. The number of certified air traffic controllers at the New York Area Terminal Radar Approach Control remains at 57%
of targeted staffing levels. Controllers are working under high strain, including mandatory overtime and six-day workweeks, to manage flight operations amid the shortage.
FAA Flight Limits and Extended Waivers
The FAA has extended flight limits and waivers to mitigate congestion and staffing constraints. Flight caps at Newark are extended through summer 2027, while limits at JFK and LaGuardia will remain until late October 2028. Relief from the minimum slot usage requirement, reduced from 80% to 70%, has been extended at JFK, LaGuardia, and Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) through late 2027. This waiver allows airlines to operate up to 10% fewer flights without losing their takeoff
and landing slots.
The FAA imposed significant flight cuts at Newark starting May 2025 following major operational disruptions, particularly at the United Airlines hub there. These restrictions are extended through October 2027. The FAA has stated that air traffic control staffing shortfalls at Newark will not see substantial improvement before that date.
Effects on Travelers
Passengers at JFK, LGA, EWR, and Philadelphia airports are experiencing delays averaging from 71 to 149 minutes. Between 20% and 30% of flights are canceled today due to these operational challenges linked to severe weather conditions and understaffed air traffic control facilities.
FAA Official Position
The FAA acknowledges the persistent shortage
of certified air traffic controllers as a primary cause of ongoing delays and cancellations. Despite efforts to recruit and retain personnel, staffing deficiencies remain significant, especially at Newark, where improvements are not expected before October 2027. The agency continues to use flight limits and slot usage waivers as necessary tools to manage air traffic flow and reduce disruption at congested airports in the New York and Philadelphia regions.
