Visitors planning to go to Washington, D.C., this weekend could encounter
major travel disruptions
at the airport.
On June 14, Saturday, the United States Army will mark its 250th anniversary celebration.
a procession through the heart of the nation’s capital
Additionally, there will be a military flyover. Because of this, the FAA is imposing restrictions on the airspace above downtown D.C., particularly affecting Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA), being the nearest airport to the heart of the city.
“Working alongside the Department of Homeland Security, the FAA will implement Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) for the Washington, D.C., region to guarantee safety and security throughout the Army’s 250th Anniversary Celebration,” stated the administration.
According to their official site, the FAA will halt all landings and takeoffs at DCA between 6 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. This event coincides with President Trump’s birthday and is scheduled to commence at 6:30 p.m. with a military procession and air show, succeeded by a firework presentation at 9:45 p.m.
“Passengers who have booked evening flights on June 14th are advised to verify the status of their flights directly through their respective airlines,” according to information provided by Reagan National Airport’s website.
Airlines are providing travel waivers for those wishing to bypass flight disruptions. Below are the airlines offering customers the option to modify their flights heading to DCA over the coming weekend without paying change fees:
American Airlines
,
Delta Air Lines
,
Southwest Airlines
, and
United Airlines
.
Make certain you review every airline’s travel waiver policy thoroughly since these documents specify particular deadlines for rescheduled trips. Besides modifications to flight schedules and timings, all airlines are permitting passengers to choose an alternative airport within the DC region such as BWI or IAD. Delta, Southwest, and United have decided to waive fare discrepancies; nevertheless, American notes that a potential variance in pricing might still be applicable for reissued tickets.
Travelers should also keep in mind that road closures preceding, during, and following the event will impact traffic across the D.C. region. As stated on Reagan National Airport’s website, “The George Washington Memorial Parkway will be shut down from Friday, June 13 at 6:00 p.m. until Sunday, June 15 at 6:00 a.m., in both directions between U.S. 50 and I-395.”
Travelers planning to head to the airport ahead of and following the military parade should anticipate significant traffic congestion leading to longer journey durations to arrive at DCA. It is advised for those traveling during this period to utilize Metrorail when coming to DCA from Friday, June 13, until Monday, June 16.
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