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Massive Plane Backlog at Newark Airport Due to Runway Closures

Newark Airport Delays Cause Major Backlog Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) experienced significant delays on May 21, 2025, due to unexpected runway closures. Construction work on runways 4L and 22R forced all aircraft to use parallel runways, creating a substantial queue of planes waiting for takeoff and landing. One pilot, who wishes to remain anonymous, captured the situation on video. He showed a flight tracking app which revealed a long line of planes waiting their turn. "I've never seen anything like this backed up before," he stated. The pilot's flight was delayed for 57 minutes from pushback to takeoff. Air traffic controllers worked efficiently to manage the situation, minimizing further disruptions. Despite the challenges, the airport continued to operate, albeit with significant delays. The incident highlights the potential impact of unexpected events on airport operations and the importance of effective air traffic control. The airport authority is reviewing the situation to determine if any improvements can be made to future construction planning in order to minimize disruptions to air travel.