FAA says flights will be paused at DCA during Freedom 250 Grand Prix

Published August 10, 2026 3:35pm ET | Updated August 10, 2026 3:40pm ET



The Trump administration announced Monday that it plans to halt all flights at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport later this month to accommodate the landmark IndyCar race taking place in the city to mark the nation’s 250th birthday. 

Travelers should prepare for delays on Aug. 23, when all flights at the airport will be paused between 10:15 a.m. and 1:15 p.m., according to the Federal Aviation Administration. The pause is aimed at supporting flyovers planned as part of the high-profile Freedom 250 race events being held on Aug. 22 and 23 and to ensure “safe and efficient movement of air traffic.”

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