From The Banner · Will Weissert, Josh Funk and Hallie Golden | Associated Press · · 1m 50s
Flight Delays Continue After Nationwide Ground Stop
U.S. airlines recover from 25-year ground stop that canceled 3,000+ flights.
In brief
U.S. airlines recover from 25-year ground stop that canceled 3,000+ flights. A nationwide FAA ground stop canceled over 3,000 flights and stranded travelers as airlines work to recover from the longest nationwide air traffic disruption in 25 years. Originally reported by The Banner.
Nationwide Ground Stop
Airlines across the U.S. worked Saturday to recover from the longest nationwide ground stop in 25 years that canceled more than 3,000 flights.
Ground Stop Cause
Trump administration officials said new technology added to air traffic control overloaded antiquated equipment causing intermittent communications and radar gaps.
Ground Stop Duration
The nationwide stop lasted more than four hours and was lifted around 8:15 p.m. Friday.
Global Impact
The ground stop spread ripple effects around the world and stranded passengers.
Sports Teams Affected
Auburn University’s football team took a bus to Mississippi State and pushed their game start time from noon to 4:15 p.m.
Traveler Experience
Passengers at Reagan National Airport faced delays and cancellations after the ground stop was lifted.
Flight Cancellations
Flightaware.com reported a few dozen delays and cancellations at airports including Reagan and Dulles as of Saturday morning.
Airlines' Response
Several airlines waived fees for rebooking or canceling flights at the last minute including Southwest and United Airlines.
Traveler Story
Jennifer Angarita, a mother of two, was relieved to be home after her flight from Denver to BWI but faced high Uber prices.
Stranded Traveler
Zach Tolle waited at Salt Lake City airport for over six hours after his flight was delayed and eventually canceled.
System Fixes
The FAA has replaced thousands of old copper wires with fiber optic lines and upgraded hundreds of radio systems.
Future Concerns
Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy warned of more disruptions as the air traffic system continues to age.
The headline
A nationwide FAA ground stop canceled over 3,000 flights and stranded travelers as airlines work to recover from the longest nationwide air traffic disruption in 25 years.
