Flights grounded at several north-east US airports due to equipment problems

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has imposed ground stoppages at several major Northeast US airports due to equipment issues, impacting the travel plans of thousands of passengers. This decision comes as New York City prepares to host numerous world leaders for the United Nations General Assembly, commencing this week.

The FAA suspended flights to Philadelphia International Airport, Teterboro Airport, and Newark Liberty International Airport, citing problems with specific frequencies at Philadelphia's Terminal Radar Approach Control (Tracon). The Tracon system coordinates aircraft in the airspace surrounding major airports, directing them between the airport control tower and en-route centers. The extent of the stoppage remains uncertain.

Numerous planes sat idle on runways, with delays reaching up to 150 minutes at significant airports in Newark and Philadelphia. Flightradar24, a flight-tracking website, reported that airports in John F Kennedy and LaGuardia, both in New York City, were also affected. These airports are among the busiest in the nation, experiencing over 2,000 take-offs and landings daily.

Representatives from nearly 200 countries and territories are set to arrive in New York City this week for the UN General Assembly. During this event, they will present their nations' priorities and objectives for the upcoming year.