MARKET STRUCTURE · USA
FAA halts flights at four Washington DC–area airports
Change
The Federal Aviation Administration implemented a ground stop on March 13, 2026, halting flights for over an hour at Ronald Reagan Washington National, Washington Dulles, Baltimore–Washington International, and Richmond International airports.
Why it matters
A ground stop was put in place on the evening of March 13, 2026. The ground stop affected Ronald Reagan Washington National, Washington Dulles, Baltimore–Washington International, and Richmond International airports. The action lasted for over an hour. A strong chemical smell was reported to be impeding air traffic controllers. Flights at the affected airports resumed departures after 7 p.m. ET on March 13, 2026.
Implications
- • Departures and arrivals were held at the four airports for the duration of the ground stop.
- • Air traffic controllers' ability to manage traffic was impaired while the odor was present.
- • Airline operations and airport ground handling experienced temporary pauses in normal turnarounds and scheduling.
Who is affected
- • Air traffic controllers
- • Airlines' operations teams
- • Airport ground operations staff
- • Commercial passengers
Source
Topics