Travelers at Newark Liberty International Airport were feeling the impact of flight delays on Saturday due to an air traffic controller shortage and outdated technology.

“It's frustration, but I only have so much control over it,” said John Lessieu, of Ramsey.

“I had an hour and a half delay,” said Jane Fernandez, of Spain. “I’m waiting for my sister to come in - also from Myrtle Beach - she had a four-hour delay.”

On Friday, United leadership announced the airline is cutting 35 round-trip flights daily from Newark, starting Saturday.

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby says 20% of the air traffic controllers who serve Newark walked off the job. His statement also blames past failure by the U.S. government to limit Newark’s flights to a more reasonable level.

United says air traffic control has been understaffed in Newark for years. Technology failures and ongoing runway construction delayed or canceled over 1,000 flights out of Newark this week.

Travelers know there is little to be done without a fully-staffed control tower.

“Safety is first,” said Andrea Ellis, from Connecticut. “So, I believe that if we want to see our families, it’s best that we just move our flights. United, in my case, was giving a fee waiver.”

“They did a pretty good job of moving me onto something tomorrow,” Lessieu said. “They were very helpful.”

United leadership has been in touch with Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy about Federal Aviation Administration investments and recruitment.