FAA Suspends Flight Operations Amid Chemical Odors

On Friday, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) halted flight operations at several key airports due to a strong chemical smell reported at a nearby air traffic control facility, causing disruptions throughout Washington, D.C.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced that ground stop orders were issued, impacting major airports such as Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, Washington Dulles International Airport, Baltimore-Washington International Airport, and Richmond International Airport. The issue originated from the Potomac Terminal Radar Approach Control Facility (Potomac TRACON), which oversees air traffic for multiple regional airports.

Duffy stated on social media, “@FAANews is working to address the source of strong odors from Potomac TRACON that are impacting operations at three airports.”

In a preliminary statement, the FAA confirmed the closure of the major airports after noting that some air traffic controllers were affected by the odor. The FAA clarified that traffic was temporarily suspended at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, Washington Dulles International Airport, and Baltimore-Washington International Airport because of the chemical smell.

While some departures have restarted following the initial ground stop, a full return to normal operations may take time. Delays and restrictions are expected to persist, possibly until midnight, as crews work on restoring regular air traffic.