Heavy winds and rain have been sweeping through the tri-state area, causing disruptions and delays at Newark Liberty International Airport. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that a private plane veered off the runway during landing, leading to the closure of the runway and grounding of some flights.

The incident, which occurred around 1:50 p.m., resulted in damage to one wing of the aircraft. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. However, the runway will remain closed as investigations are conducted, impacting both incoming and outgoing flights.

As a result of the runway closure, the airport’s capacity to handle arriving flights has been reduced, leading to delays and diversions. Departures from Newark are experiencing delays of 15 minutes or more, while flights heading to Newark from other airports are facing average delays of around 95 minutes.

United Airlines, responding to a passenger on social media, confirmed that some flights had to circle Newark’s airspace due to the incident. The FAA’s website initially showed a temporary ground stop at Newark, which was later changed to a ground delay.

Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for updated flight information and to expect delays. The situation at Newark Airport is ongoing, and travelers are urged to stay informed about any developments that may affect their travel plans.

In other news, incidents such as this serve as a reminder of the importance of safety and preparedness in air travel, highlighting the need for stringent protocols to ensure the well-being of passengers and crew.