Ronald Reagan National Airport halting traffic around Fourth of July weekend to clear airspace for America 250

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Travelers planning to fly into Ronald Reagan National Airport for the Fourth of July may have to find another flight.

The Washington, D.C.-area airport announced on Tuesday that it would be closed to flight traffic after 12pm on the Fourth of July, noting that travelers should be aware of potential interruptions resulting from the America 250 celebration in the capital.

The celebration will include military flyovers, skydivers, and fireworks — all of which need clear airspace.

“Many events will include downtown flyovers or other aerial displays such as fireworks or parachute jumps, which will affect flights periodically at Reagan National,” the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority said in a statement.

In addition to the Fourth of July celebrations, the MWAA— which manages both National and Dulles International Airport — said that the Great American State Fair planned for June 24 through July 10, the Grand Prix race on August 22 and 23, and the Independent Day rehearsals on July 3 and 4, will likely ground air traffic.

Ronald Reagan National Airport in Arlington, Virginia — just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. — will close its runways after 12pm on July 4 for the America 250 celebrations planned for that afternoon and evening (Reuters)

“In some instances, airline flight schedules have already been adjusted to avoid pre-planned airspace closure times and minimize impacts on travelers,” the MWAA said. “In other cases, DCA flights may be delayed by temporary holds as coordinated through air traffic control communications.”

It noted that changes to America 250 programming could force changes to when flights are operating, and said travelers “are advised to closely monitor the status of their flights for adjustments during America 250 celebrations in Washington, D.C.”

“Passengers should double-check flight times and consult with their airline for specific scheduling information,” the MWAA said in a statement.

The terminals and parking garages at National Airport will remain open on days when flights are suspended.

The MWAA said that the closures should have minimal impact on travelers.

“Many of the airspace closures are expected to have a limited duration and impact,” it said.

The MWAA also noted that there are no approved spaces on airport property for watching fireworks.

This isn’t the first time President Donald Trump’s love of spectacle closed down National Airport. Last year, the airport closed its runways to accommodate Trump’s military parade on his 79th birthday, though that disruption only lasted a few hours.

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