FAA Orders Nationwide Ground Stop Over Air Traffic Communications Problems
FAA National Airspace System Status Map showing airports affected by ground stops across the United States. Red markers indicate reported ground stops. FAA map.
DEVELOPING STORY | Friday, November 13, 2026
The FAA has ordered a nationwide ground stop, requiring all departing flights to remain on the ground because of air traffic control communications problems affecting multiple centers. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy confirmed that FAA technicians are investigating.
The FAA cited extraordinary circumstances and safety concerns. International arrivals will be handled individually.
The agency’s Advisory 111 states:
“ALL AIRPORTS ARE GROUND STOPPED. ALL DEPARTING TRAFFIC SHOULD REMAIN GROUND STOPPED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.”
Earlier FAA advisories reported equipment problems at Chicago O’Hare and Midway. The FAA has not yet identified the specific equipment failure or its cause.
What Does This Mean for Alaska?
Even if Anchorage is not experiencing a local equipment failure, Alaska travelers can be affected by disruptions elsewhere.
Flights arriving in Alaska may be held at their departure airports. Outbound passengers could face delays, missed connections, and cancellations as airlines work to reposition aircraft and crews.
A ground stop does not mean every airport is physically closed. It means departing aircraft cannot take off while the restriction remains in effect.
Travelers should check directly with their airlines before heading to the airport.
Travelers should check their airline’s website or app before heading to the airport for the latest information on flight status, departure times, delays, cancellations and any changes to their travel plans.
Airline updates may change as the FAA works to restore normal operations..
Alaska Headline Living will update this report as the FAA releases additional information.
Sources
Federal Aviation Administration
- National Ground Stop Advisory 111
- Advisory 107: Chicago O’Hare
- Advisory 109: Chicago Midway
- National Airspace System Operations Summary
- National Airspace System Status Map
U.S. Department of Transportation
Developing story. FAA operational information is subject to change.
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