Dca To Suspend Flights During Trump's Military Parade: What About Passengers?

White House plans parade for Trump's bday, Army's 250th anniversary

The White House is planning a massive military parade to celebrate the Army's 250th anniversary and President Donald Trump's 79th birthday.

Airline operations at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport will be temporarily suspended for part of the day on June 14 to accommodate flyovers and a planned fireworks show during a military parade meant to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army.

The airport suggested that travelers booked to fly to, from or through DCA on June 14 should contact their airline for information about how their flights may be affected.

The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed that temporary flight restrictions would be in effect in the airspace around Washington, D.C., on June 14. However, the agency said the plan is still being finalized and that it will soon release more details about the number and types of aircraft involved.

"The FAA will implement traffic management initiatives (TMI) at DCA before, during, and after the event to ensure safety and will facilitate a return to normal operations once the event concludes," the FAA said in a statement. "During the peak of the celebration, the TMI stops all arrivals and departures."

The airport warned in a statement that roads to and from the airport would likely be congested.

United Airlines referred to the FAA for further details. Southwest said in a statement that it was aware of the plan and is not anticipating any cancellations.

"We have about 20 flights that operate into and out of DCA during the anticipated airspace closure," Lynn Lunsford, a Southwest Airlines spokesperson, told USA TODAY in a statement. "We will be working with our teams to make sure customers are aware and can plan accordingly."

American Airlines and Delta Air Lines did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

This is a developing story. Check back for more updates.

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter and writes the Cruising Altitude column for USA TODAY. He is based in New York and you can reach him at zwichter@usatoday.com.