Heads Up, DCA Flyers: Reagan National Will Pause Flights for Army's 250th Bash on June 14
Flying into or out of Washington, D.C.’s Reagan National Airport (DCA) on June 14? You might want to bring a little extra patience and maybe a neck pillow that doesn’t judge. Due to a full-blown celebration for the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary, DCA will hit the pause button on flights for part of the day to make room for military flyovers, a parade, and fireworks. Yep, airspace will temporarily close so the sky can put on a show. It's patriotic... just not ideal if you were hoping to land on time.
Why Flights Are Being Delayed (Or Paused Altogether)
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has confirmed temporary flight restrictions will take effect on June 14, including a full pause on arrivals and departures at DCA during key parts of the celebration. The goal: keep everyone safe in the air while jets, helicopters, and possibly some very fancy fly-bys take center stage above D.C.
As of now, the FAA hasn’t released an exact list of aircraft or timing details, but they’ve made it clear that flight interruptions will happen. Expect flight management initiatives, aviation lingo for controlled chaos, before, during, and after the parade to help planes safely return to their normal routes.
Will My Flight Be Affected?
That depends. Here’s what we know from the airlines (translation: what they’re telling us without fully committing to anything).
- Southwest Airlines says it has around 20 flights that touch DCA during the closure window. While they’re not expecting cancellations, they’re preparing to update travelers if any changes hit the schedule.
- Delta Air Lines isn’t expecting major schedule changes either. A company rep said only a “small number of operational adjustments” might be needed and that passengers will be assisted if reaccommodation is necessary.
- United Airlines redirected inquiries back to the FAA. Always a promising sign.
- American Airlines has remained quiet on the matter. We're watching to see if they chime in closer to the event.
In short: check your flight status often, and don’t wait until you’re halfway to TSA to find out things have shifted.
Ground Trouble, Too
Flight delays aren’t the only concern. The roads around Reagan National are also expected to get very patriotic. Think: road closures, rerouted traffic, and some good old-fashioned D.C. gridlock. If you’re catching a flight or picking someone up, plan for bumper-to-bumper action and leave yourself extra time.
What’s This Parade All About?
The Army’s turning 250, and they’re throwing a party big enough to shut down airspace. Here’s what’s on the schedule:
- Parade: Starts at 6:30 p.m. ET, marching down Constitution Avenue NW from 23rd Street to 15th Street near the National Museum of African American History and Culture. That route takes it past the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and right through the National Mall.
- Concert: Kicks off at the Ellipse immediately after the parade ends around 7:30 p.m.
- Fireworks: Launch at 9:45 p.m. ET. Expect sky-high sparkle and a possible rattle if you’re anywhere near the city.
What Travelers Should Do Now
If you’ve got plans involving DCA on June 14, here’s your quick action list:
- Double-check your itinerary: Start stalking your airline app like it owes you money.
- Sign up for alerts: Text updates, push notifications, email, whatever keeps you in the loop.
- Leave early: Not just a little early. Think “my Uber driver will complain about rush hour” early.
- Pack patience: And snacks. Definitely snacks.
Bonus tip:
Have one of these travel credit cards? Your wait just got a serious upgrade. Lounge access is the secret weapon for delayed travelers because if you're stuck at the airport, you might as well be stuck with free cocktails and Wi-Fi.
- Chase Sapphire Reserve: You’ll get Priority Pass Select access (enrollment required), which means you can kick back in select lounges at DCA like the Turkish Airlines Lounge, if it’s within your terminal and you can get in.
- Amex Platinum: This one’s got the bougie airport experience on lock. Cardholders get access to the American Express Centurion Lounge (there’s one at DCA, Terminal B), plus Priority Pass (again, enroll first). Just note that Centurion Lounges can fill up faster than a flight to Florida in February so join the waitlist as soon as you deplane or pass through security.
- Capital One Venture X: You also get Priority Pass access and access to Capital One Lounges. While there isn’t a Capital One Lounge at DCA (yet), your Priority Pass still gives you a few solid lounge options.
So go ahead and order that free drink, grab a seat with an outlet, and enjoy your mini airport staycation while jets do tricks over the Potomac.
Final Word
Washington knows how to throw a spectacle, and this one’s no exception. But when the sky is part of the show, air travel takes a back seat. Whether you're a local heading out or a tourist flying in, stay updated, stay flexible, and maybe, just maybe, use this as a good excuse to spend one more night in town.
Because nothing says “Happy Birthday, Army!” like a delayed departure and a $7 airport pretzel.
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Jacqueline Gomez
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All information is accurate as of the date of publication but may change over time.
Always check for the latest details before making travel plans.