Train Traffic Suspended at Newark Liberty International Airport Due to Strike

Travelers to and from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) are facing even more delays and disruptions as NJ Transit, the train service that operates the popular corridor between New York City and the airport, has suspended all services due to an ongoing strike. This comes on top of already existing delays caused by air traffic control staffing issues.

NJ Transit, which provides commuter service as well as train service to the airport, has described the suspension as a “critical” advisory for travelers. As an alternative, the airport is offering a shuttle bus service every 20 minutes between downtown Newark, NJ’s Penn Station, and the AirTrain Station. It is important for travelers to carefully review the alert to avoid confusion between Newark Penn Station and New York Penn Station, which are two separate stops. The NJ Transit has also provided a web page with additional bus routes to assist commuters and travelers during this suspension.

The strike is organized by the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET), whose members are seeking a wage increase. BLET National President Mark Wallace stated in a news release that the strike will continue until their members receive fair pay. The NJ Transit reports that over 350,000 people ride their trains each day, while Newark Airport serves 48 million passengers annually, with airlines such as Alaska Airlines, Air Canada, Delta Air Lines, Qantas, Singapore Airlines, and United Airlines.

For travelers with flights booked at Newark Airport, airlines have offered additional flexibility to assist with rebooking. United Airlines, for example, has waived change fees and fare differences for any passenger traveling through May 23. American Airlines has also enacted a travel waiver for Newark for travel through May 19, allowing passengers to change their travel dates or switch to other New York airports such as John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) or LaGuardia International Airport (LGA).

While the strike and air traffic control staffing issues have caused significant disruptions for travelers to and from Newark Airport, the airport and airlines are working to provide alternative options and flexibility to assist with rebooking. It is important for travelers to stay informed and plan accordingly to avoid further delays and complications.