Rockford, Ill. – The Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) announced Friday that all departing flights are suspended until further notice because the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a nationwide ground stop. The agency cited “extraordinary circumstances and for reasons of safety” stemming from communications problems at regional air‑traffic control centers.

Airport Advises Travelers

RFD released a statement urging passengers to contact their airlines directly for the latest information on delays or cancellations. “The FAA has issued a nationwide ground stop affecting departing flights, including those at Chicago Rockford International Airport, until further notice,” the airport said. “Travelers are encouraged to check directly with their airline for the latest information on flight delays or cancellations.”

Federal Officials Respond

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy confirmed the communications issue affecting the regional control centers that guide planes across the country. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin added that, at this time, there is no indication of a nefarious act behind the problem.

Historical Context

This is the first nationwide ground stop since January 2023, when a key FAA computer system malfunctioned. The only other nationwide halt occurred after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

Local Perspective

Rockford News First’s sister station WEEK spoke with former Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood at the General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport. LaHood, who served under President Obama from 2009 to 2013, said, “This is complicated because we know the technology is very old and antiquated that air traffic controllers use to guide planes in and out of airports. I assume there has been some serious glitch with that technology.”

LaHood, a longtime Illinois public‑service veteran and father of current Rep. Darin LaHood (D‑16), emphasized the need for modernizing the nation’s air‑traffic infrastructure.

What Travelers Should Do

Passengers with upcoming flights from RFD should:

• Check airline websites or apps for real‑time updates.
• Contact airline customer service for rebooking options.
• Monitor local news outlets for further FAA announcements.

The airport will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. Nationwide updates on the ground stop can be found through the FAA’s official channels.

Original reporting: WIFR Rockford News First (local) — read the source article.