A major radar and communications outage at Dallas TRACON (Terminal Radar Approach Control) forced the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to halt all flights at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW Airport) and Dallas Love Field (DAL) on Friday afternoon. The disruption has caused significant delays and diversions for travelers across North Texas.
The FAA confirmed the outage in a public statement, saying: “The FAA is slowing flights into Dallas Love Field and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport due to a reported equipment issue at Dallas TRACON.”
Dallas TRACON is responsible for managing radar and communication systems for arrivals and departures at both major airports.
Air Traffic Controllers Report Total Communication Loss
Air traffic controllers reported a complete loss of radar and phone communications with aircraft in the Dallas area. One controller at Dallas Love Field was heard on LiveATC.net saying, “I’m not departing anybody until we can get a system setup. We have no coms with approach right now.”
A Southwest Airlines pilot also relayed: “Approach wanted to pass on to you to stop all departures. They can’t get a hold of you. They are having some com issues, I guess.”
The controller added: “Yeah, I think the entire Metroplex just went down.”
Hundreds of Flights Delayed at DFW Airport
By 2 PM CT, more than 273 flights were delayed at DFW Airport and another 69 at Dallas Love Field. According to the FAA’s latest advisory, delays across the Dallas airspace averaged more than two hours, with some stretching beyond seven hours.
As one of the world’s busiest airports, DFW Airport serves as a key hub for American Airlines, while Southwest Airlines operates heavily from Love Field. The outage has therefore had a widespread impact on both domestic and international travel.
FAA Investigating Radar Outage Cause
The FAA is currently investigating the cause of the equipment failure at Dallas TRACON and working urgently to restore full radar and communications systems. Until systems are restored, ground stops at DFW Airport and Dallas Love Field remain in place, with inbound flights diverted and outbound flights halted.
Travelers passing through Dallas are strongly advised to:
- Check flight status regularly
- Stay in touch with airlines for rebooking options
- Expect extended delays throughout the evening
