The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has authorised a temporary waiver of the minimum usage requirement of slots at John F Kennedy International Airport, New York LaGuardia Airport, and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport from May 15-September 15.
This is due to post-pandemic effects on air traffic controller staffing at the New York Terminal Radar Approach Control facility. Carriers seeking to take advantage of this relief must identify slots and approved operating timings they wish to turn in before April 30.
The FAA has so far shared letters received from United Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta Air Lines requesting waivers for the Northern hemisphere summer.
“Although ready and fully capable to operate its full summer 2023 schedule, United recognises that many of the constraints are attributable to workforce challenges by other aviation stakeholders, including the FAA. To protect the passenger experience and mitigate disruptions at these airports during the peak summer season, it is imperative that aviation stakeholders and the FAA work collaboratively to take proactive measures,” reads the letter from United, penned by Executive VP and COO, Toby Enqvist.
Delta openly thanked the FAA for its consideration. “To protect the passenger experience and mitigate disruptions at these airports during the peak summer season, it is imperative that aviation stakeholders work collaboratively with the FAA to take proactive measures. We are prepared to do our part,” says John Laughter, Executive VP and COO at Delta.
