During a recent session at the Wolfe Research conference, American Airlines’ Chief Financial Officer, Devon May, disclosed that a growing number of passengers are opting for alternative airports in the region rather than Newark Liberty International Airport. This shift follows a series of operational disruptions, although May characterized the overall impact as “modest.”
“It’s likely that some travelers are intentionally booking flights away from Newark to other options such as LaGuardia, JFK, or even to a lesser extent, Philadelphia,” May explained.
According to the latest statistics from the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which oversees Newark along with LaGuardia and John F. Kennedy International Airports, American Airlines holds approximately a 4% market share at Newark.
“There’s definitely a change occurring, but when looking at the overall network, it seems to be relatively minor,” May added.
United Airlines maintains a dominant presence at Newark, boasting nearly a 70% market share. The airline had previously announced a reduction of 35 flights daily earlier this month to help ease the ongoing congestion.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy recently stated that the U.S. government plans to invest billions into revamping the aging air traffic control system.
The tax bill approved by President Donald Trump, which passed the House earlier this week, includes $12.5 billion allocated for the modernization and staffing of air traffic control facilities.
