Following an earthquake that struck the northeast on Friday, both John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City and Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey have been placed on full ground stops. A ground stop is an order that slows or halts the flow of aircraft at a specific airport, as explained by New York Gov. Kathy Hochul during a news conference.
Governor Hochul also mentioned that Amtrak, the rail company serving the northeast region, and the MTA, responsible for New York's public transportation including the subway system, were operating on a full schedule with no disruptions reported at the time of the announcement. Amtrak had implemented speed restrictions as a precautionary measure while conducting inspections on its tracks.
The earthquake-induced ground stops at the two major airports have undoubtedly impacted air travel in the region, causing delays and diversions for incoming and outgoing flights. Passengers are advised to check with their respective airlines for updates on their travel plans.
Despite the challenges faced by the aviation sector, the rail and public transportation systems seem to be functioning normally, providing commuters with reliable transportation options amidst the seismic event. The coordination between various transportation authorities highlights the importance of preparedness and swift response in ensuring the safety and efficiency of travel operations during unexpected events.
