A construction crew working on a rail project in New Jersey accidentally cut a Verizon fiber-optic cable, creating significant disruptions to air traffic operations across the northeastern United States. The incident occurred during work between New Brunswick and North Brunswick, with the crew operating approximately 10 feet away from utility markings. According to NJ Transit, the cable cut resulted in damage to critical communications infrastructure supporting multiple airport facilities.
The Federal Aviation Administration responded by halting flights bound for Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey and Philadelphia International Airport, while also diverting nearly 100 aircraft to alternative airports. The disruption affected the Terminal Radar Approach Control facility in Philadelphia, which manages approach and departure operations for both major hubs. By 6 p.m. Monday, more than 600 flights at Newark had been canceled, representing more than half of the day’s schedule, with an additional nearly 100 delayed. Philadelphia experienced over 200 cancellations and more than 400 delays. Flights to and from LaGuardia and John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City were also halted during the afternoon before resuming with residual delays.
According to FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford, the incident involved an initial circuit failure followed by a backup system failure. The backup fiber line had sustained a break, leaving air traffic controllers without redundant data connections. Verizon stated that its crew deployed technicians to the scene immediately and worked to restore the damaged cable. The airline industry responded by waiving change fees and offering alternative routing options to affected passengers.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy indicated the disruption underscored the broader need to modernize aging air traffic control infrastructure. The incident occurred hours before international leaders were scheduled to arrive in New York for the United Nations General Assembly.
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