A ground stop impacting air travel across the Washington D.C. Region was lifted Friday evening, though ground delays continue. The initial ground stop, implemented around 5:30 p.m., stemmed from a “strong chemical smell” detected at a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) facility in Virginia.
Disrupted Travel Across Multiple Airports
The FAA issued ground stops affecting Reagan National, Dulles International, and BWI Marshall airports. The disruptions also extended to Charlottesville-Albemarle and Richmond International airports.
Source of the Disruption
According to the FAA, the ground stops were a direct result of the “strong chemical smell” at the Potomac Consolidated Terminal RADAR Approach Control (TRACON) facility in Virginia. This facility provides air traffic control services for the Baltimore-Washington and Richmond-Charlottesville areas. Some air traffic controllers were affected, though no injuries were reported.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated via a post on X that the odor originated from an overheated circuit board. He confirmed the board has been replaced and controllers have been cleared to return to the facility.
Impact on Flights
Following the lifting of the ground stop, between 25% and one-third of all departing flights from the affected airports experienced delays. Transportation reporter Tom Roussey noted that these delays are “going to be ripple effects all night long,” potentially extending into the following day.
Fauquier County Fire Rescue System responded to a “potential hazardous materials incident” at the facility, alongside the Prince William County hazardous materials team. Some employees reported “mild symptoms” but did not require hospitalization, according to Chief Kalvyn Smith.
Travelers experienced significant disruptions, with reports of passengers sitting on tarmacs for extended periods or being asked to deplane. WTOP anchor Mark Lewis, delayed at Reagan National, reported his flight did not begin taxiing until 7 p.m., prompting applause from passengers when it finally did.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the flight disruptions?
The flight disruptions were caused by a “strong chemical smell” at the Potomac Consolidated Terminal RADAR Approach Control (TRACON) facility in Virginia, leading to a ground stop at multiple airports.
Which airports were affected?
Reagan National, Dulles International, BWI Marshall, Charlottesville-Albemarle, and Richmond International airports were all affected by the ground stop.
What is the current status of flights?
The ground stop has been lifted, but ground delays are still occurring at the affected airports.
As the situation evolves, will the delays continue to impact air travel throughout the region?
