Thunderstorms on August 6, 2026, caused significant disruptions at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and Washington Dulles International Airport in the Washington, D.C. area. The severe weather impacted both arrivals and departures, triggering FAA operational restrictions.
FAA Ground Delay Program at Reagan National Airport
The Federal Aviation Administration imposed a ground delay program at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport starting at 3:51 p.m. Eastern Time due to thunderstorms affecting inbound flights. This program was planned to remain in effect until 11:59 p.m. Average arrival delays reached 41 minutes, with some flights postponed as long as 151 minutes. Although an earlier ground stop was cancelled, weather conditions continued to
cause persistent delays.
Ground Stop and Departure Delays at Washington Dulles International Airport
Washington Dulles International Airport experienced a ground stop from 2:55 p.m. to 4 p.m. ET because of thunderstorms. After 4 p.m., departure delays replaced the ground stop, with average delays for departing flights increasing to 45 minutes shortly before 4 p.m. These delays escalated as the thunderstorms persisted, affecting flight schedules.
Passengers scheduled to travel through Reagan National or Dulles Airports during thunderstorm activity on August 6, 2026, should anticipate delays and possible cancellations. Checking with airlines for current flight status is recommended before arriving at the airports.
