American Airlines nationwide ground stop lifted after 'technical issue'

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Updated  December 24, 2024 12:17pm EST
FOX 5 DC
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American Airlines nationwide ground stop lifted after 'technical issue'

The Federal Aviation Administration has lifted a nationwide ground stop to all American Airlines flights grounded in the U.S. after the carrier reported a technical issue affecting its entire system with millions traveling for the holiday.

The Brief

    • The Federal Aviation Administration lifted a nationwide ground stop for all American Airlines flights after the carrier reported a technical issue affecting its entire system.
    • American Airlines assured travelers that their team is working to resolve the issue as quickly as possible, prioritizing passenger safety.
    • The timing of the groundings is challenging, with the Transportation Security Administration expecting to screen 40 million passengers during the holiday season through January 2.

FAA lifts ground stop after technical issue 

WASHINGTON - The Federal Aviation Administration has lifted a nationwide ground stop to all American Airlines flights grounded in the U.S. after the carrier reported a technical issue affecting its entire system with millions traveling for the holiday.

In social media replies to frustrated travelers on Tuesday morning, the airline said: "We're currently experiencing a technical issue with all American Airlines flights. Your safety is our utmost priority, once this is rectified, we'll have you safely on your way to your destination."

READ MORE: End-of-year holiday airport travel tips. Here’s what you need to know.

Working to fix the problem

"A vendor technology issue briefly affected flights this morning. That issue has been resolved and flights have resumed. We sincerely apologize to our customers for the inconvenience this morning. It’s all hands on deck as our team is working diligently to get customers where they need to go as quickly as possible," and update from the airline said.

they said the ground stop lasted about an hour.

"American Airlines reported a technical issue this morning and requested a nationwide ground stop. The ground stop has now been lifted," the FAA said in a statement.

The timing of the groundings is particularly challenging for the millions of travelers expected to fly over the next 10 days. The Transportation Security Administration anticipates screening 40 million passengers during the holiday season through January 2.

READ MORE: Winter Weather Advisory: Snow showers, freezing rain in DC region on Christmas Eve morning

The Source: Statements from Federal Aviation Administration, American Airlines, and FOX  5 reporting contributed to this article.