Flyovers for Great American State Fair Trigger Delays at Reagan National Airport

Travelers flying through Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) this morning can expect delays through at least 2 p.m. EDT because of military flyovers in the area.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said Thursday morning that flights through 2 p.m. at Reagan National are expected to be delayed by an average of 24 minutes because of the event. The FAA also warned passengers to expect further ground stops or delay programs later this afternoon (after 2:30 p.m. EDT) and again tonight (after 10 p.m. EDT).

The disruptions are due to a series of military flyovers scheduled over the National Mall to kick off the Great American State Fair. Organized by the Freedom 250 organization, the 16-day exposition marks the early start of celebrations for America’s 250th anniversary. The fair runs through July 10, spanning the upcoming July 4 holiday.

Because the flight paths cut directly through the sensitive airspace adjacent to DCA, air traffic control is implementing temporary holds and ground delays to maintain safety.

Aviation disruptions are expected to continue at DCA over the next two weeks as the fair features additional flyovers, parachute jumps, and fireworks. The FAA and airport authorities have warned travelers to expect significant disruptions on June 28 (Military Appreciation Day), July 3 (Independence Day rehearsals), July 4, and July 10.