FAA Lifts Ground Stop: Flights Resume at San Francisco International

The FAA briefly halted some flights to San Francisco International Airport due to operations involving Western U.S. air traffic control centers. The stoppage, from 9:53 p.m. to 11:15 p.m. PDT, was lifted earlier than planned. Travel disruptions might continue as new safety restrictions loom at SFO.

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) lifted a short-term ground stop at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) affecting flights from several departure points. This action, initiated late on Sunday, caused temporary disruptions for air traffic within the Western U.S. region.

The stoppage spanned from 9:53 p.m. to 11:15 p.m. PDT, although it ended slightly premature. The FAA's decision was connected to operations within some Western U.S. air traffic control centers. In response, SFO remained silent on Reuters' inquiry regarding the event.

According to the airport's 2025 data, SFO services over 54 million passengers annually. It serves as a major hub for United Airlines and sees significant international travel, particularly to and from Asia. Previously, in March, the FAA announced new safety measures potentially leading to further delays at the airport.