WASHINGTON, D.C. — Travelers heading to or from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) this week should anticipate significant delays as Washington, D.C., prepares to host a large-scale military parade marking the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army. In addition to a scheduled suspension of flights, major road closures and traffic restrictions will be in effect from June 12 through June 16, impacting access to the National Mall, nearby roadways and the airport.
According to the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA), the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will implement a temporary ground stop at DCA from 7:30 to 9 p.m. to support military aircraft flyovers and fireworks scheduled as part of the festivities.
“To accommodate aircraft flyovers along the parade route, followed by a fireworks display, the Federal Aviation Administration is expected to suspend airline operations at DCA — affecting scheduled flights,” the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority said on its website.
Southern Maryland travelers flying through Reagan National Airport (DCA) are encouraged to check their flight status with their airline before leaving home, allow extra time for travel due to road closures near downtown Washington and consider using Metrorail to avoid limited parking and expected congestion around the airport.
Army Birthday Celebration: Saturday, June 14 Schedule
The parade and related events will take place throughout the day on the National Mall, culminating in fireworks and a concert. Registration is available at america250.org/
Highlights include:
- 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.: Army Birthday Fitness Competition and awards
- 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.: Army Birthday Festival featuring static military displays, live music and demonstrations
- 6:30 to 7:45 p.m.: Grand Military Parade with 6,600 soldiers, 150 vehicles, 50 helicopters, parachute teams and a fighter jet flyover
- 9:45 p.m.: Fireworks on the National Mall
- 10 p.m.: Evening concert and celebration
Traffic and Road Closures: June 9–16, 2025
In support of the celebration, the District of Columbia and surrounding Virginia roadways are experiencing extensive phased closures that began as early as Monday, June 9, and will continue through Monday, June 16. These closures affect major commuter routes, expressways, bridges and local access roads.
Closures include:
- Constitution and Independence avenues
- 14th to 23rd streets in NW and SW
- Ohio Drive, Rock Creek Parkway, Arlington Memorial Bridge
- Multiple I-395 and expressway ramps, including the E Street Expressway and TR Bridge access points
Local traffic restrictions and emergency no-parking zones are also in effect across numerous downtown streets. Full vehicle access will be restricted during peak parade and fireworks hours.
A complete list of closures is available via MPD: Traffic Advisory – MPDC
Increased Aircraft Noise Advisory: June 10–15
According to a press release from Joint Base Andrews, the U.S. Army Military District of Washington, residents in the National Capital Region—including Southern Maryland—should anticipate increased aircraft noise from June 10 through June 15. The rise in noise levels is due to incoming and outgoing military aircraft supporting operations for the Army’s 250th Birthday Festival and Parade.
The aerial components of the celebration will feature multiple helicopters and aviation units, including:
- UH-60 Black Hawk
- AH-64 Apache
- CH-47 Chinook
These aircraft will participate in flyovers, staging operations and tactical demonstrations tied to the June 14 festivities. The Army advises that this temporary uptick in activity is part of scheduled ceremonial operations, and safety protocols remain in place.
For continuous updates on traffic and transportation conditions, visit:
Contact our news desk at news@thebaynet.com
Yeah we all know this isn’t for the Army’s birthday.
Let’s hear the DEMS CRY
What a weak show out! Now post news about the No Kings rallies throughout the DMV area or even just ones in Southern Maryland alone… I bet you won’t because there were probably more in attendance in just SOMD than in DC.