The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) implemented a ground stop at Washington D.C.’s Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on Tuesday morning due to an alleged bomb threat on a United Airlines flight. The restriction, initiated at 11:18 a.m., remained in effect until 1:30 p.m., disrupting operations for over 800 flights.
Emergency vehicles were observed near a United flight on the tarmac, the only aircraft present during the suspension. Travelers reported a bomb threat involving the plane, which had arrived from Houston, prompting immediate security measures. Flight tracking data showed multiple aircraft circling the airport while others diverted to alternative destinations.
Similar ground stops occurred on October 29, when the FAA cited “military activities” as the cause. On Tuesday, the agency attributed the disruption to “security” concerns. Nearby airports, including Washington Dulles (IAD) and Baltimore/Washington (BWI), maintained normal schedules throughout the afternoon.
Transportation reporter Adam Tuss noted the scene on social media, describing the halted operations at Reagan Airport. No further details about the affected flight or threat were immediately disclosed by authorities.