WASHINGTON, D.C. (Michigan News Source) – The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) ordered a nationwide ground stop Friday afternoon, halting departing flights until further notice.

Just the News reported that the FAA confirmed the order, citing extraordinary circumstances and safety concerns.

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According to an FAA statement reported by Axios, communication problems affecting multiple air traffic control centers prompted the action.

Travelers should check with their airlines for information about individual flights.

Separately, the FAA announced Thursday the expansion  of its AI-assisted SMART traffic-planning system nationwide. However, no connection between SMART and Friday’s communication problems has been established.

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