The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a ground stop at Baltimore Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) on Thursday, August 20, 2026, in response to severe weather conditions. Washington National Airport (DCA) also experienced a ground stop earlier in the day, which was subsequently lifted.
Severe weather, including tornado and severe thunderstorm watches, was active across the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) area. These weather alerts prompted the FAA to halt departures at BWI and temporarily restrict operations at DCA to maintain air traffic safety.
Flights at BWI were paused due to the ground stop, resulting in disrupted
schedules and delays for travelers. The stoppage aimed to protect flight operations amid hazardous weather conditions impacting the region.
