Newark Airport Temporarily Halts Flights Due to Control Tower Evacuation

On March 23, 2026, Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey experienced a temporary halt in flight operations after air traffic controllers evacuated the control tower due to a burning smell emanating from an elevator. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that the evacuation occurred around 7:30 a.m. local time, and the ground stop lasted less than an hour, with no injuries reported. During this period, FAA staff relocated to a backup control tower before returning to the primary facility.

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This disruption at Newark Airport coincided with a tragic incident at New York's LaGuardia Airport, where an Air Canada Express flight collided with a fire truck during landing, resulting in the deaths of both pilots and injuries to dozens of passengers. The FAA confirmed that the Newark evacuation was unrelated to the LaGuardia crash, which had occurred the previous night.

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The FAA stated, “Arrivals and departures are temporarily paused at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey after air traffic controllers evacuated the tower because of a burning smell coming from an elevator.” The agency confirmed that no fire had occurred, and the cause of the odor remained unclear. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which operates Newark Airport, supported the FAA's assessment and confirmed the swift relocation of operations.

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While the incident was managed without injury, it raised concerns about the ongoing operational challenges in U.S. aviation, particularly amidst a partial government shutdown that has led to staffing shortages at the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Critics have pointed out that these shortages contribute to increased delays and safety concerns at airports nationwide.

Reuters

There were no significant discrepancies in the reports regarding the Newark incident; however, the ongoing issues related to air traffic control staffing and the implications of the LaGuardia crash have been noted as broader concerns affecting air travel safety and efficiency.

WION

Travelers were advised to check their flight statuses due to potential delays stemming from both the Newark incident and the LaGuardia crash. The FAA and Port Authority are expected to continue monitoring the situation closely as they address operational challenges exacerbated by the recent events.

Newsweek

• “What they're saying: "Arrivals and departures are temporarily paused at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey after air traffic controllers evacuated the tower because of a burning smell coming from an elevator.” — FAA Statement

WNYW - Fox 5 - New York

• “The evacuation occurred around 7:30 a.m. local time, and personnel returned to the tower around 8:30 a.m. on Monday, March 23,” — FAA Statement

Newsweek

This incident highlights the complexities of managing air traffic safety in the context of recent operational disruptions and ongoing staffing challenges within the aviation sector.

WION