LIVE: Nationwide ground stop issued due to ‘extraordinary circumstances,’ FAA says

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — A nationwide ground stop is in effect, the Federal Aviation Administration said Friday afternoon.

The Details

The ground stop is “due to extraordinary circumstances and for reasons of safety,” according to an alert from the FAA.

Flight canceled or connection missed? What passengers should know after nationwide ground stop Every flight in the country is being told to delay departures. The FAA says inbound international flights will be handled on a case-by-case basis.

The agency has not given further details.

The FAA has issued a ground stop affecting departures at ATL and other major airports. Departures are temporarily suspended. Travelers should check with their airlines for flight updates. We will provide an update as more information becomes available. — Atlanta Airport (@ATLairport)

According to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, there is a “communication issue impacting all Air Route Traffic Control Centers,” adding that technicians are investigating the issue.

This is reportedly only the second nationwide ground stop since 2023. A nationwide ground stop was also issued on 9/11.

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Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport said the ground stop is impacting departures and is urging travelers to check with their airlines for updates.

This is a developing story. Check back with Atlanta News First for updates.

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