The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) activated a ground delay program Sunday, August 16, 2026, at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) due to thunderstorms disrupting air traffic. Flights departing Reagan National are experiencing average delays of approximately 35 minutes. Arrival delays at DCA are generally running 15 minutes or less, although specific flights may encounter longer hold-ups.
Thunderstorms affecting the Washington, D.C., area have caused the FAA to implement weather-related traffic management procedures. The storms are also impacting major air routes throughout the Northeast region. FAA officials continue to assess potential additional restrictions as the thunderstorm system moves east and
northeast. The delays are disrupting both arrivals and departures at the busy regional airport with ground stops in effect.
