US flights grounded nationwide due to air traffic control communication issue

All US airports are under a national ground stop as the FAA investigates a critical communication problem.

By SafarSamachar Desk14 Nov 2026, 3:04 am IST

Illustration

Illustration: SafarSamachar Pix Desk, created with AI assistance. Not a photograph of the event.

Key facts at a glance

1US transportation secretary Sean Duffy confirmed a nationwide ground stop for all US airports.
2The communication issue impacts all Air Route Traffic Control Centers.
3The FAA described the issue as an 'extraordinary circumstance and reasons for safety.'

All US airports are under a nationwide ground stop as the FAA investigates a critical communication issue affecting air traffic control systems. The FAA has instructed airborne flights to circle on predetermined routes instead of landing, and all departing flights are currently groundstopped until further notice.

International flights are being handled on a case-by-case basis. The issue reportedly began in Chicago and is described by the FAA as an 'extraordinary circumstance and reasons for safety.'

The FAA is working with technicians to investigate the problem, which impacts all Air Route Traffic Control Centers. The US transportation secretary, Sean Duffy, has shared updates on social media, including a promotion for a new air traffic management tool. Immediate updates are expected as the investigation progresses.

What this means for travellers

If you're planning to fly within the US or to the US, check with your airline for the latest updates as flights are currently grounded nationwide due to a critical air traffic control communication issue.

Sources

TThe Guardian World

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