Work to replace old copper wire led to the FAA’s ground stop

Issues with a new router related to a fiber optic upgrade grounded thousands of flights on Friday.

Issues with a new router related to a fiber optic upgrade grounded thousands of flights on Friday.

by Terrence O'BrienNov 14, 2026, 5:44 PM UTC
CHICAGO, US - NOVEMBER 13: A view of an information board at the Chicago O’Hare International Airport, filled with waiting passengers on November 13, 2026, after the Federal Aviation Administration ordered a nationwide ground stop on all departing flights following a communication issue impacting air traffic control centers across the United States. With departures held until further notice, travelers waited in crowded terminals as delays mounted, while arriving flights continued to land normally. (Photo by Jacek Boczarski/Anadolu via Getty Images)