Federal order covers departures in San Luis Obispo and Paso Robles after air traffic control communications problems

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY — A nationwide halt on departing flights Friday, Nov. 13, extended to airports serving San Luis Obispo County, including San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport and Paso Robles Municipal Airport, after the Federal Aviation Administration reported air traffic control communications problems.

The FAA ordered departing aircraft to remain grounded until further notice. Aircraft already airborne could land, while international flights would be handled individually, Reuters reported.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said the communications issue affected regional air traffic control centers that guide aircraft between airports. FAA technicians were investigating, according to The Associated Press. Officials had not immediately announced when normal departures would resume.

The disruption has implications for both airline passengers and private aviation in the county. San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport serves commercial airline travelers, while Paso Robles Municipal Airport accommodates general aviation, including business, personal and recreational flying. Paso Robles has no scheduled airline service, although charter services are available, according to the city.

A verified count of flights delayed or canceled at either airport was not available for this report. The extent of the disruption to individual private and charter flights in Paso Robles also had not been independently confirmed.

Passengers flying through San Luis Obispo should check directly with their airlines for departure updates, connection information and itinerary changes. The county’s airport information page provides access to arrivals and departures and directs travelers to their carriers for flight-specific information.

Friday’s disruption marked the first nationwide ground stop since January 2023, when an FAA computer system malfunction interrupted departures across the country, according to AP.

Travelers can find local airport information at sloairport.com and the Paso Robles Municipal Airport website.

This is a developing story. Flight restrictions and schedules may change as officials address the communications disruption.