Travelers flying in and out of Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) on June 14 are being warned of major disruptions as the Federal Aviation Administration prepares to shut down operations for a military parade marking the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary — an event timed to coincide with President Donald Trump’s birthday.
The parade and related celebrations, described on the U.S. Army’s official site as a full-day extravaganza, are projected to cost between $25 million and $45 million. It will include more than 100 vehicles, 50 helicopters, and thousands of soldiers. Much of it will take place across six blocks in central Washington, D.C., cutting through the National Mall and concluding near the White House, where Trump is expected to watch from a viewing stand on Constitution Avenue.
In a statement on its website, Reagan National Airport warned that airline operations will be suspended during the military flyovers and fireworks.
“Customers with flight reservations for the evening of June 14 should check the status of their flights directly with their airline,” airport officials said.
The airport also discouraged visitors from coming to view the fireworks due to limited garage parking and warned of major traffic delays from road closures and increased foot traffic.
The FAA confirmed the impact to air travel, stating, “In partnership with the Department of Homeland Security, the FAA will issue Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) for the Washington, D.C., area to ensure safety and security during the celebration.”
American Airlines, one of the largest carriers operating out of Reagan National, told CBS News it had adjusted flight schedules and temporarily upgraded aircraft size to accommodate more passengers. It is also offering customers the flexibility to rebook through nearby Washington Dulles (IAD) or Baltimore/Washington International (BWI) at no additional cost.
The FAA noted that during the peak of the event — including the 6:30 p.m. parade and the 9:45 p.m. fireworks display — all arrivals and departures at DCA will be suspended.
The event’s scale, timing, and cost have sparked criticism, particularly given its alignment with Trump’s birthday and its impact on federal and civilian operations. Trump, who has repeatedly called for reduced federal spending, is facing scrutiny for celebrating with a lavish parade funded by taxpayers, while many in his political party push for sweeping cuts to social services including Medicare, Medicaid, SNAP, and federal employee rolls. Additionally, Trump’s various golf excursions have cost taxpayers an estimated $30 million in just five months.
The celebration begins with a 9:30 a.m. fitness competition and continues throughout the day with live music, equipment displays, and family-friendly attractions. The parade will begin at Constitution Avenue NW and 23rd Street, proceed past landmarks including the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Constitution Gardens, and end at 15th Street near the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
“A military parade in Washington, D.C., may significantly impact vehicle and airline traffic on the evening of Saturday, June 14,” according to Reagan National Airport. “Expect delays from road closures and increased pedestrian and vehicle traffic in the area.”