Airline and travel groups are warning that any move to suspend international passenger and cargo processing at Newark Liberty International Airport could create major problems for travelers, airlines and businesses.
The warning came after federal officials raised the possibility of shifting customs resources away from Newark as part of an immigration enforcement dispute with New Jersey. The state’s limits on cooperation with federal immigration authorities have become part of a larger fight over sanctuary policies.
Newark is one of the country’s busiest international gateways. A disruption there could affect thousands of arriving passengers each day, including many U.S. citizens returning from overseas trips. Cargo operations could also face delays, creating problems for retailers, shippers and companies that depend on fast international movement of goods.
Travel groups said similar action at other major airports in sanctuary cities could have a much larger economic effect nationwide.
The timing adds pressure. The World Cup begins next month, and the final is scheduled near Newark, making the airport especially important for international travel.