Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin addressed members of the press during a briefing held outside the White House, offering initial remarks regarding the Federal Aviation Administration’s nationwide ground stop. Secretary Mullin stated that, at the time of the briefing, there was no evidence to suggest the incident was the result of any hostile or malicious action.
“There was no indication, as of yet, that this was a nefarious act against us. It was just a telecommunication outage, as of right now,” Secretary Mullin told reporters.
The ground stop had widespread effects on air travel across the country, including significant disruptions at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport and Dallas Love Field. Passengers at both airports were left searching for alternative arrangements and ways to reach their destinations as the situation unfolded. Long lines formed at Love Field, and terminals became congested with delayed travelers as the ground stop continued.
